Country: France Region: Medoc, Bordeaux Varietal: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon  Vintage: 2012 Colour: Red Style: Dry Producer: Chateau Loudenne Description: Located on the edge of the estuary of the river Gironde, Château Loudenne is one of the most endearing sites of the Medoc. Its notoriety has been established for 400 years. Chateau Loudenne spreads on a wonderful terroir of 326 acres of which 143acres of vineyards. 11 miles North of Pauillac, Chateau Loudenne will charm you as much by its fine architecture as by its unique situation on the banks of the estuary of the river Gironde. Chateau Loudenne is also the only estate in Medoc to have a private dock in order to accost by boat.With three hundred years of history, Loudenne is one of the oldest estates in the Medoc region. The vineyard of Château Loudenne is located on two gravelly hills that slope gently down to the estuary. The gravels which reflect the sun’s rays, reduce the risk of freezing and favor growth of vegetation, creating an exceptional microclimate. This privileged terroir contributes to the unique complexity and finesse of Château Loudenne wines. Ageing Potential: 12 Years Tasting Note: The 2014 vintage is characterized by mild but very rainy periods in winter (January, February), which favored a rapid growth of vegetation. The cool spring slowed down the development of the vine. July and August were cool and regularly watered, with sometimes hot spells over a few days. Beautiful sunshine in September and stable weather over several weeks allowed us to get the grapes to ripen well. The North Medoc and Loudenne were spared from the corridor of rain and storms which struck Saint-Estèphe and Pauillac.   Technical Information Appellation A.O.C. Médoc Varietal(s) 50 %Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon Aging 1/3 new oak, 12 to 15 months in 100% French oak barrels originated from Bordeaux coopers; medium toast, 2 to 3 racking. Food Matches:Beef / Lamb / Casseroles