Above La Barbanne, the two-hectare Enclos de Viaud vines take root in the famous clay-chalk soils of the region. Merlot (making up to 90% of this wine) is perfectly suited to these soils and finds its most sublime expression on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Lalande-de-Pomerol is an appellation on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, separated from Pomerol and Saint-Émilion simply by the Barbanne stream. Its soils are composed mainly of clay, which Merlot thrives in, as well as the distinctive gravel of the area. It benefits from a wonderful microclimate that contains lots of warmth, sunshine, and just the right amount of humidity.

After hand-picking with plastic crates and a first selection of the grapes in the vineyard, these arrive in the winery where they are de-stalked and carefully sorted once more. The grapes are then casked in stainless steel tanks for vinification. Aged in oak barrels for 12 months to soften the tannins and harmonize the fruit, the final wine shows boldness and strength matched by dignified elegance. Smooth from the first nose to finish, this distinctive and memorable wine is produced with the expertise of star consultant Michel Rolland and winemaker Jérôme Aguirre (who has experience making some of the finest wines in the region such as Châteaux La Violette, Le Gay, and Reignac).

With a beautiful intense burgundy color, this 2016 delivers a powerful bouquet mixing candied fruits with a little exotic and woody touch of coconut. Aromas can also be found in a balanced mouth, round and voluptuous without lacking structure, with well-coated tannins.