Château Sociando-Mallet, Ht-Médoc - 1998

Viticulture

Superb exposure on the banks of the Gironde, benefiting from the moderating effect of this body of water. The vineyard is made up of 2/3 very rich gravelly soils on very rich clay-marl subsoils which require even more drainage, but which give the Cabernet Sauvignon a frankness and vigour of expression that is a cousin of Latour. And 1/3 heavier, clayier soils, often favourable to Merlot, which triumphs in dry, hot years.

Oenology

Harvested by hand in crates, with sorting on a table before de-stemming. Traditional vinification using indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled cement and stainless steel vats. Vatting for 25 to 30 days. Malolactic fermentation in vats, without inoculation. Aged in 100% new barrels for 12 months. Total ageing of 18 months.