| background:
It all began more than a century ago when Prosper-Jean Robin (1848-1930) acquired Château La Couspaude, which is ideally situated at the entrance to the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, a meeting place for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. It is from this perfect geographical location at the top of the clay-limestone plateau of Saint Emilion that the estate takes its name: "La Croix Paute" (now "La Couspaude"). This cross, which still stands in front of the entrance to the chateau, marks the crossroads from which the pilgrims set out for their different destinations.
The soil of La Couspaude reflects the fine characteristics of the Saint-Emilion limestone plateau. It is composed of a thin clay-limestone layer (40 to 80 centimetres thick) and a hard limestone subsoil. The vines are rooted in the limestone and benefit from a natural regulation of the soil's water reserves. Excess water from winter, spring and sometimes summer is stored in the rock and released to the vines during dry periods. This means that the vine does not suffer from either drought or over-watering during its annual cycle. This natural regulation of water, coupled with the poor soil, slightly undulating topography and good exposure to the sun, are the main components of the Château La Couspaude terroir.
2018 brought another excellent vintage to Saint-Emilion. This wine is a blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and is aged 18 to 20 months in French Oak. Described as having a "deep and brilliant" color, this wine also features a very complex red fruit nose, enhanced by toasty notes. The attack on the palate is powerful and very full, with great length. | |
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