The estate
Located to the northwest of Pomerol, Château de Sales is a historic estate on the right bank of Bordeaux and has been owned by the same family for over five centuries. Today, the Lambert heirs and their children perpetuate the legacy of this iconic estate that produces fine Pomerol wines.
The vineyard
Comprising a surface area of 47.60 hectares of vines, Château de Sales’ vineyard is the largest in the Pomerol appellation.
The vintage
A dry and moderate winter gave way to a mild month of March which favoured an early budbreak. The consecutive frosts on April 27th, 28th and 29th affected part of the estate's vineyard. While June was very hot, July and August were milder with limited amounts of rainfall. The harvest took place from September 13th to October 5th, during which meticulous work was carried out to harvest each plot and each variety at the right maturity.
Vinification and ageing
Harvested at full maturity, the grapes were able to reveal their full expression during the vinification process. In order to respect the purity of the fruit while adding a subtle woodiness, the wine is aged in oak barrels, 15% of which are new French oak and 85% of which are between 1 and 3 years old.
The blend
Merlot (78.5%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (12.5%)
Cabernet Franc (9%).
The tasting
Colour
Bright, beautiful garnet colour.
Nose
Complex and precise, the nose combines fruity (black fruits), spicy and vanilla fragrances.
Palate
A fresh and precise attack gives way to a full mouthfeel. Subtle woody notes harmoniously blend with fine, silky tannins. The finish is persistent and very elegant.
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 De Sales reveals notes of baked plums, Black Forest cake and balsamic with hints of pencil shavings, tilled soil and cedar. The medium-bodied palate has a fair bit of chewy oak with muscular fruit and a slightly rustic finish.