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Château Pavie Macquin is stunningly situated on the clay-limestone plateau of Saint-Émilion on the right bank of Bordeaux. In recent years, the introducing of biodynamic viticulture and modernised winemaking techniques promoted the Château to a Premier Grand Cru Classé classification in 2006. Vintage 2007, a traditional blend dominated by Merlot with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon brings a rich palate brimming with ripe berry fruit flavour with slight undertones of tobacco and mint leaf.

With a history dating back to 1152, Château d'Issan was established as a third growth in the 1855 classification. By 1945 when the Cruse family purchased this storybook Margaux property with its 17th century Château and moat, it was a shadow of its former self with just 2ha in production. With 44ha planted to 60% Cabernet and 40% Merlot, the Cruse family sold 50% to Jacky Lorenzetti in 2013. D'Issan is now firing on all cylinders, producing a wine that is both fleshy and structured. Up to 40% of the production is declassified into a second wine (Blason d’Issan).

Replantings and an upgrade of the winery and cellars, has resulted in the gradual recognition of this oft-overlooked wine producer. The upgrades have helped fine tune wines that are produced from potentially stunning fruit, sourced from a vineyard that sits on gravel between Batailley, Lafite-Rothschild and Mouton-Rothschild in Pauillac. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot spends time in mostly older wood and is known for its juiciness, fleshy texture and ability to be drunk at a relatively young age.

The Virginie de Valandraud red AOC Saint Emilion Grand Cru 2018 is a beautiful expression of Bordeaux craftsmanship. It boasts a deep, ruby red color, with glints of purple at the edges. On the nose, aromas of black cherry, plum, and cassis mingle with hints of cedar, vanilla, and tobacco. These notes continue onto the palate, where they are joined by flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate, and a touch of spice. The tannins are velvety and well-integrated, providing a smooth and elegant mouthfeel. This vintage is particularly special, with warm weather allowing for optimal ripening of the grapes, resulting in a wine that is full-bodied and complex, yet well-balanced. A true representation of the Chateau Valandraud's commitment to excellence, this wine is sure to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression. Enjoy now or cellar for further development.