Château Rouget

Vintage of contrasts
Thanks to the quality of our terroirs on "Plateau de Pomerol" we have produced absolutely amazing, aromatic, complex and rich tannic Merlot. Crop was among the lowest we have seen over the last decade. At only thirty two hectolitres per hectare (thirteen hectolitres per acre), 2012 Rouget will be rare but valuable.
However, this vintage was full of challenges. The vine vegetative cycle has begun during a complicated period when weather alternated considerably upwards or downwards, from rains to excessive warm temperatures. It was therefore necessary to fight against diseases such as powdery and downy mildew at their earliest stages in the beginning of the season. Hot and dry summer that followed, has concentrated and accelerated the alcoholic maturity and slowed down phenolic maturity. Once again, September has played a determining role. Light rains in early September followed by excellent weather until October 10th gave way to tight grape skins and perfect acidity / maturity balance, and as consequence we harvested delicious and healthy berries.
With 14 degrees of alcohol, the 2012 vintage is at the top end of what we normally produce. But with silky tannins and good acidity that makes the wine crisp and digestible, this vintage is without doubt a great harmony. We continue to reduce the proportion of new oak by taking only slightly toasted barrels in order to fully express the fruit of our grapes.