Chateau Guadet St Emilion Grand Cru

This tiny domaine has a long, fascinating history. The Guadet family acquired the estate in the mid-15th century at the end of the Hundred years War, the time the Acquitaine returned to France's control. The Guadet family was important in the area of St. Emilion in the eighteenth century; the elder Guadet was the mayor of St. Emilion and the son became President of the Assembly at the time of the Revolution. In 1794 he and all of his family were captured and beheaded (guillotine). It is his picture which figures on the label.

The property covers only 5.5 hectares, is just outside the city wall gate of St. Emilion. There are 4 parcels-- 3 are Merlot (80%) and one is Cabernet Franc. The vines ages' average 45 years. The viticulture is certified organic since 2010 (started 2008), and bio-dynamic since 2014. Yields average only 30 hl/ha. Fermentations are with indigenous yeasts. Barrel-aging is between 30 and 50% new depending on the vintage (very, very light toast), and amphora.

Tasting:
Nice fresh and floral nose, the attack is sharp, with firm tannins and good structure in the mouth. Fresh fruit flavors and fair acidity.