Chateau CantemerleProducer from Bordeaux, France

Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux.

Bordeaux 1855 Classification: Fifth Growth

Château Cantemerle, located in the southernmost part of the Haut-Médoc appellation, is one of the oldest and most revered estates in Bordeaux. With a history that spans nearly a millennium, this Fifth Growth estate from the 1855 Bordeaux Classification is celebrated for producing wines of elegance, finesse, and remarkable ageing potential. Cantemerle’s wines are a quintessential expression of the Haut-Médoc, showcasing the unique terroir of the region and the estate’s commitment to quality.

History of Château Cantemerle

The origins of Château Cantemerle can be traced back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest estates in Bordeaux. The château was originally owned by the Lords of Cantemerle, a noble family who first planted vines on the estate’s gravelly soils. Over the centuries, the estate changed hands several times, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that Château Cantemerle began to gain widespread recognition.

In 1855, Château Cantemerle was included as a Fifth Growth in the famous Bordeaux Classification, a significant achievement that acknowledged the estate’s potential and the quality of its wines. However, Cantemerle's inclusion in the classification came with some controversy, as the estate was initially omitted from the list. After a legal dispute, Cantemerle was reinstated, making it the last addition to the prestigious classification.

In the 20th century, Château Cantemerle faced challenges, including periods of neglect and financial difficulty. The estate’s fortunes changed in 1981 when it was acquired by the SMABTP insurance group. The new owners invested heavily in both the vineyard and the winery, revitalizing the estate and restoring its reputation as a top producer in the Haut-Médoc. Today, Château Cantemerle is managed with a focus on tradition and sustainability, producing wines that are highly regarded for their elegance and balance.

The Terroir of Château Cantemerle

The terroir of Château Cantemerle is one of its most important assets, contributing significantly to the quality and character of its wines. The estate’s 92 hectares of vineyards are planted on deep gravel soils, which are interspersed with sand and clay. These well-drained soils are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, the two dominant grape varieties at Cantemerle. The gravelly soils allow the vines to root deeply, accessing important minerals that contribute to the complexity and structure of the wines.

The vineyard is planted with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc. This blend reflects the estate’s commitment to producing wines that are both powerful and elegant. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure and ageing potential, while Merlot adds softness and richness. Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc contribute aromatic complexity and a hint of spice.

The estate benefits from its location near the Gironde estuary, which creates a microclimate that moderates temperatures and reduces the risk of frost. This unique combination of soil and climate conditions allows Château Cantemerle to produce wines that are balanced, with a harmonious blend of fruit, tannins, and acidity.

Winemaking at Château Cantemerle

Winemaking at Château Cantemerle is a meticulous process that combines tradition with modern techniques. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure that only the best fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise control over the fermentation process and ensuring that the wines develop their full range of flavours and tannins.

The wines are then aged in French oak barrels for 12 to 16 months, with about 40% new oak used each year. This ageing process enhances the wines' complexity and depth, allowing the tannins to soften and the flavours to integrate harmoniously. The result is a wine that is approachable in its youth but also capable of developing greater complexity and nuance over time.