Chateau De Sales Pomerol 2012  £40.83

Chateau De Sales Pomerol 

As ever-fewer estates remain family-owned, the largest one in Pomerol is still run by the same family as it was almost five centuries ago – an exception indeed in the Bordeaux region. Château de Sales has been passed down from generation to generation ever since the 16th century, when it was acquired by the Sauvanelle family. Since 1578, Château de Sales has seen four different families: the Sauvanelles, the Desaigues, the de Laages and the Lamberts, the changes in name occuring when the estate was passed down through the women of the family.

Château de Sales is currently owned by the Lamberts and their children, who are direct descendants of the Sauvanelles.

The harvest of this vintage took place from the 28th of September to the 11th of October. 

Spring and early summer were cool and damp. The second half of the summer was very sunny, with a significant lack of water. The flowering period was relatively early, starting in late May, and protracted. The grapes changed colour slowly, starting in early August.

Mild and warm weather prevailed in September and October, with temperatures reaching 28°C. Considerable differences between daytime and night-time temperatures helped to concentrate and preserve aromas and flavours in the grape skins.

A deep colour, oscillating between purple and garnet red, the wine has a nose on ripe red fruit aromas and seductively subtle notes of oak. On the palate, the 2012 vintage is round, full-bodied and well-balanced with a high-quality tannic structure, leading into an elegant, slightly oaky and very fresh finish.

Pairs well with Beef, Lamb, Game and Poultry.