Château Vray Croix de Gay 2021

A rich and elegant Pomerol wine

The estate

Château Vray Croix de Gay is considered one of the most beautiful estates of the Pomerol appellation on the right bank of the Bordeaux region. The former winemaker of Pétrus, Jean-Claude Berrouet joined the technical team of the château in 2013 as an oenologist-consultant.

The vineyard

Château Vray Croix de Gay produces Pomerol wines that stem from a 3.67-hectare vineyard, divided into 9 plots and subdivided into micro-plots. The vines are 45 years old on average and are planted on clay gravel in the heart of the Pomerol plateau. The vineyard has been certified for organic farming since 2018.

The vintage

A milder and wetter than average winter favoured a homogeneous and early bud break. The vegetative cycle was delayed due to cold and dry spring conditions until the end of April, followed by rainy weather in May. The rapid rise in temperatures at the beginning of June disrupted the fruit set and led to coulure, particularly on the older Merlot vines. Although a stormy spell from mid-June to mid-July reinforced the pressure of mildew, the subsequent dry and relatively cool conditions were ideal and helped to reveal the balance and freshness of the grapes.

Vinification and ageing

The Merlot grapes were harvested on September 25th and the Cabernet Franc on October 12th. The wine is aged in barrels (35% new barrels, 55% second-fill barrels, 10% third-fill barrels).

The blend

Merlot (80%)

Cabernet Franc (20%).

Château Vray Croix de Gay 2021: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

Fresh and complex, the nose gives off floral (violets) and fruity (black cherries) fragrances.

Palate

The palate combines fruity (black fruits) and empyreumatic notes. Supple and unctuous, the palate is seduced by this wine’s elegance and drinkability.