Château Mouras, 2014 Graves, ,

PRODUCER Jean-Christophe Barbe, Professor of Oenology at Bordeaux University, is mostly famous for his outstanding Sauternes (Decanter 2013 Sweet Bordeaux Trophy over £10), but also produces some stunning reds, albeit on a fairly small scale. The Château Mouras Graves comes from a six hectare property that lies in the Graves communes of , and . The Graves Supérieures is a sweet wine made from botrytised Semillon and is a superb alternative to Sauternes.

VINEYARDS Jean-Christophe has just six hectares of red grape varieties in the little communes of Portets, Illats et Landiras. The average age of the vines is 21 years old. Leaf thinning took place in July to ensure the fruit was fully exposed to the sunlight so that full ripening could take place. Jean-Christophe also carried out a green harvest before veraison to reduce yields and improve concentration.

VINTAGE The growing season got off to a warm and dry start, with most vineyards two weeks ahead of schedule. Flowering occurred in early June and the vintage seemed set for an early September harvest. But then July and August delivered clouds and humidity. By the end of August, producers were worried about delayed ripening and potential disease pressures. Any bunches showing early signs of rot were removed, and growers trimmed berries that were still green and reduced canopies for better air flow. Nearly perfect conditions in September, including a good breeze, helped concentrate the berries, though yields were a little lower than normal.

VINIFICATION The grapes were hand-picked then spent nearly four weeks on their skins at 28°C - 30°C. The wine underwent malolactic Grape Varieties 50% Merlot fermentation at 22°C. It was then aged for 12 months in oak 35% Cabernet Sauvignon barrels. 15% Petit Verdot TASTING NOTES Winemaker Jean-Christophe Barbe This wine has a lovely berry fruit on the nose and a supple texture Closure Natural Cork on the palate with the attractive mineral character that defines ABV 13.5% the appellation of Graves. Dark fruit and spice dominate the mid- palate providing excellent depth that is supported by firm but ripe Bottle Sizes 75cl tannins. Notes Vegetarian, Vegan