Château Baret Blanc 2015

Château Baret, formerly the property of the Lords of Baret and later acquired by the Ballande family, prominent Bordeaux traders and ship-owners, in 1867, boasts a rich history. Following fire damage in the early 20th century, significant extension work was carried out. Over the past two decades, the vineyard, the vat room and the cellars have been fully rehabilitated and refurbished. This beautiful 18th century chartreuse is located in Villenave D'ornon, near Bordeaux in proximity to some of the most prestigious wine estates in the Pessac-Léognan appellation. Proximity to Bordeaux city ensures early grape ripening, reducing the effects of variable late-season weather conditions typical of the region. 

The unique combination of gravelly sandy soils and classic gravelly clay soils, characteristic of the Left Bank of Bordeaux, enhances the production of exceptional red wines. The coolest soils, including clay-limestone and clay-gravel soils are dedicated for whites, explaining the lower proportion of white wine production in the vineyard. Château Baret encompasses 40 hectares with 25.80 hectares of vineyards, this includes 21.70 hectares for red wines and 4.10 hectares for white wine. 

To promote deeper rooting growth and mitigate drought risk, the vineyard employs conventional tillage methods. Careful attention is given to the vines, with targeted fertilization for white vines and controlled production through green harvesting for red vines. The harvest is usually amongst the earliest within the Bordeaux region. In order to preserve the fruit and acidity, the whites are hand-harvested in the morning when the temperatures are the coolest.

Juice extraction methods are tailored annually to enhance the wine’s expressiveness. For the production of white wine, Château Baret primarily uses Semillon grapes. The wine is vinified and aged in oak barrels on lees for 8 to 10 months before being stabilized and bottled ahead of the summer. 

The 2015 vintage is a blend of two grape varieties: 90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Semillon. This vintage is notable for its pale gold color. The bouquet is fine and racy with a great aromatic richness on fine notes of citrus and lychee. The palate is round, greedy and fresh. The wine has a unique combination of fresh ascites, lush textures, concentration and sweet, ripe, crips and yellow fruits. Harvesting took place from August 27 to September 4.