Château Bélair-Monange

Through some judicious purchases, this excellently situated estate (right next to Ausone) now covers 23.5 hectares. It is more or less divided into three sectors with soils varying with different degrees of blue clay and limestone and a blend that is 98% Merlot and just 2% Cabernet Franc. Dark intense ruby colour, very expressive, pretty red and black berried fresh fruit character. On the palate the wine is fresh, round and generous, I adore the mineral freshness here; it is just so inviting and juicy while maintaining its elegance. Great balance and resonance on the finish. Gorgeous wine. Over the last few months, we have witnessed the impressive Herzog & De Meuron (world famous architects who designed Dominus) winery being built on the western flank of the domaine - watch this space! (FM)