Château Sansonnet 2023

Characteristics and Tasting Advice for Château Sansonnet 2023

Tasting

Nose
Complex, the nose exudes rich fruity aromas.

Palate
A broad attack precedes a structured palate, with the perfect balance between freshness and sweetness. Silky tannins stretch out elegantly to a long, indulgent finish.

A lively and balanced Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé

The estate

Located in the northeast of Saint-Émilion, Château Sansonnet joined the select circle of Saint-Émilion Grands Crus Classés in 2012. This very fine estate underwent an extensive improvement plan across the entire vineyard to further enhance the quality of its wines. In 2009, Marie-Bénédicte Lefévère took over management of the domaine and leads it with ambition, passion and determination to elevate the cru to the pinnacle of Saint-Émilion wines.

The vineyard

The Château Sansonnet 2023 is a Saint-Émilion wine from a single 7-hectare vineyard. The vines, averaging 35 years old, are planted on an argillaceous-limestone terroir on Astéries limestone of the appellation’s famous plateau. In a comprehensive approach to environmental respect, the vines are subject to reasoned phytosanitary treatments with soil tillage. Château Sansonnet’s vineyard is also engaged in an SME approach and certified HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) Level 3.

The vintage

Although the year began with an early, uniform budburst and flowering, the warm, humid spring conditions created strong mildew pressure, kept in check thanks to the teams’ expertise. The moderate early summer heat was balanced by high temperatures at the end of August, promoting good berry ripeness. Grapes were harvested according to maturity, yielding excellent quality fruit.

Vinification and aging

Hand-harvested in crates followed by density sorting. Fermentation in wooden vats and stainless steel tanks. Entirely vinified in 500-liter barrels, including the malolactic fermentation. The 16-month aging is carried out in 70% new barrels, 22% large wooden casks and 8% amphorae.

Blend

Merlot (87%)
Cabernet Franc (8%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (5%).