Author: Dirk Chan
Our day started with a visit to one of Pomerol’s premier estates – Chateau La Conseillante, named after Catherine Conseillan, a metal dealer based in Libourne. Somewhere in the 18th century, she established a vineyard close to the border between Pomerol and St. Emilion. Indeed the famed Cheval Blanc is across the street. It has such illustrious neighbours as Petrus, Vieux Chateau Certan and L’Evangile. We visited with Jean-Michel Laporte, the Directeur of the estate, who thanked us for being on time for our appointment (the Bordelais like visitors to be on time!)
About 4000 cases of Conseillante are made each year from vines averaging 40 years of age and cropped very small to control the volume, around 4000 litres/hectare. Planted in 80% Merlot and 20% CabFranc in one contiguous block of vines, this is an elegant expression of Pomerol, never the boldest nor the lightest of wines, it is all about finesse and class. We were treated to the superb but tight 2005 and an already exquisite 2010 from barrel that will rival the superb 2009 (have we heard this before?). They had just started the green harvesting at the vineyard (pictured), and we saw bunches left lying on the vineyard. Jean-Michel confirmed earlier reports that the vintage 2011 is about 2-3 weeks ahead of schedule and picking will be one of the earliest in history. The price has crept up slowly but steadily over the years to catch up with the other superstar neighbours. For the Merlot lover, this is a must experience wine.
What a beautiful label this wine has, instantly recognizable silver and purple trim, unmistakable. Tomorrow – Chateau Angelus..