There hasn’t been a chateau in Croizet-Bages for at least a hundred years. Previously it had one, but because it was too far from the vineyard the owners decided to sell it. Although the property began life in the 16th century, it was not until first half of 18th century it came to the ownership of the Croizet brothers.
When Paul Quie took it over in 1942, it was something like a rudderless ship. Now under his son Jean-Michel, he believes that old-fashioned way of making wine is important. He loves simple, straightforward wines that are pleasant to drink.
The vineyards lie at the heart of the Bages plateau in Pauillac, alongside neighbours such as Lynch-Bages and Grand-Puy-Lacoste. Covering 30 ha, it is planted with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. The vines have an average age of 35 years, at density of 8000 vines / ha and harvested with a yield of 55 hl/ha.
There is a wide acknowledgement that Croizet-Bages still had a lot of progress to make, but the focus on getting the grapes up to scratch is in the right direction. Now putting more effort in the vinification process, they are certainly heading for a path of good quality.Croizet-Bages has a second wine La Tourelle de Croizet-Bages, and annually the estate turns out about 12,500 cases of the two combined.
I have tasted the 2005 vintage, which is of acceptable quality:
Region / Country: Pauillac Vintage: 2005
Grape: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc
ABV: 12.5%
Price: HK$498
Tasting Date: 14 August 2011
Official website: www.domaines-quie.com
Wineshark Score: 88
Deep ruby with rims turning garnet, this Pauillac GCC shows a medium intensity and developing aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, liquorice, black pepper, plum, earth and slight mushroom. A good acidity level with smooth and ripe tannin, this medium body wine exhibits medium intensity flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, liquorice, cedar, ripe plum, smoke and forest floor on palate. Ripe fruit characters are apparent. Overall of acceptable quality level with reasonable complexity, intensity and length. Nothing exceptional stood out but considering coming from a good vintage it is a bit disappointing. Ready to drink now and can benefit from further ageing of 3-5 years.
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