Chateau Vieux Palon Saint-Émilion

If you've done any reading about Bordeaux's top estates, you've like come across the name Château Angélus, one of the right bank's four wines to hold the top rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé (A). Owner and winemaker Hubert de Boüard de Laforest is also a noted consultant, and has applied his considerable skill and experience in the making of Vieux Château Palon's flagship wine.

This historic property is in the subregion of Montagne-Saint-Émilion, and owned by the Naulet family, who purchased the winery in 1999. Vineyard holdings total 5 hectares, and are planted to roughly 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, which is reflected in the final blend of the wine. Significant upgrades have been made since the Naulets purchased the estate, and under the guidance of de Boüard, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel before the wine is then transferred to mostly new French oak for malolactic fermentation and upwards of 15 months of aging.

Worth decanting for an hour or so before enjoying, this classic Bordeaux from the stunning 2015 vintage should be served at about 18 C over the next 6-7 years.