La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou 2023

Characteristics and tasting tips for La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou 2023

Tasting

Colour
The colour reveals a beautiful purple hue.

Nose
Expressive, the nose blends fruity fragrances (blackcurrant, blackberry) and liquorice with subtle notes of graphite and cocoa.

Palate
A broad and supple attack precedes a palate whose fine tannins and fruity concentration stretch to a lively and persistent finish.

The balance and freshness of a Saint-Julien red wine

The estate

Iconic Cru Classé of Saint-Julien, the Château Ducru-Beaucaillou overlooks a prestigious terroir. In 300 years, six families have strived to make this cru shine with a worldwide reputation that has never been denied. Owned by the Borie family since 1941, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou takes its name from its "beautiful pebbles" terroir made up of Gunzian gravels. Led by Bruno Borie, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou ranks among the elite of Saint-Julien's great red wines. Vintage after vintage, its wines delight lovers of great Médoc wines all over the world.

The vineyard

The particularity of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou lies in the exceptional quality of its vineyard. The vines are planted on soils of Gunzian and Pyrenean gravels deposited by the Gironde estuary nearly two million years ago. From these poor soils are born exceptional Saint-Julien wines. In addition, the proximity of the Château Ducru-Beaucaillou vineyard to the Gironde estuary provides natural protection against climatic hazards.

The wine

Produced from a parcel selection of the vines of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou offers a unique vision of the great terroir of Saint-Julien. This "high-flying" cuvée is made from vines located to the east of the estate, in the centre and west of the AOC Saint-Julien.

The vintage

If the mild winter favours an early bud break at the end of March, the month of May is marked by a homogeneous flowering and fruit set, thanks to the combination of warm and dry conditions. Early and rapid, the flowering that began on May 22nd suggests a significant yield potential. The almost tropical humidity during the summer increases mildew pressure, which is managed by the expertise of the teams. From mid-August, the high temperatures and low rainfall ensure optimal ripening of the berries while preserving a beautiful freshness.

Vinification and ageing

Ageing for 12 months.

Blend

Merlot (58%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (40%)
Petit Verdot (2%).