Château Ripeau 2020

The complexity and aromatic richness of a Classified Great Growth from Saint-Émilion

The estate

A Saint-Émilion Classified Great Growth since 1955, Château Ripeau has its roots in the 13th century. The estate has since been passed into the hands of several owners. Notably, in 1874, it was owned by the Bühler brothers, landscape-architects known for having created over a hundred gardens and parks, including Parc Bordelais. Then, in 1917, Marcel Loubat, the brother of Edmonde de Wilde, then-owner of Pétrus, who gave the estate its reputation of excellence.

The Grégoire family acquired the estate in 2015 and carried out significant renovation work to the vineyard and the infrastructure.

The vineyard

Located on a high point on the northwestern plateau of Saint-Émilion, the Château Ripeau vineyard covers 16.1 hectares in one piece. Aged by 35 years on average, the vines are planted on a terroir made up of slightly gravelly and sandy soils, with a clay iron vein in the subsoil.

The vintage

The mildness during winter encouraged early vine budding as well as an early flowering, a process which was also quick, homogeneous and drip-free. Heavy rainfall in spring resulted in an early launch of treatments to contain disease development. Episodes of frost in May were offset by the equipment put in place at the estate. The hot and dry summer conditions encouraged an early and even ripening process. The clay terroir’s ability to drain and store water reserves protects the vineyard from water stress. The rainy spells in September were salvaging for the berries’ ripening process.

Winemaking and ageing

Manual harvest in perforated crates. Alcoholic fermentation in thermoregulated, inverted and tapered stainless steel vats, at low temperatures to preserve the freshness of the fruit. Precise vinification and extraction management to maintain a good balance. Malolactic fermentation is carried out in barrels (100% new), as is ageing.

Blend

The 2020 Château Ripeau is made from a blend of Merlot (65%), Cabernet Franc (30%), Cabernet Sauvignon (5%).

Tasting

Colour

The wine is an intense and deep ruby colour.

Nose

The nose unveils a rich and complex aromatic palette, mixing fragrances of black fruits (blackcurrants, blackberries) and red fruits (raspberries) with refreshing mint and vanilla notes.

Palate

The palate seduces with its aromas of mocha, cardamom and tannins, which mix power with a silky touch. The finish is wonderfully persistent.