Chateau Barde-Haut

Chateau Barde-Haut is acquired by Sylviane Garcin-Cathiard in 2000, who also owned Clos L’Eglise in Pomerol, Haut-Bergey and Branon in Pessac-Leognan. The vineyards total 17 ha, on the extreme east of St-Emilion.

Planted with 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, averaging 35 years of age, the soil type is mainly clay on a layer of chalk. The cellars are equipped with wooden and concrete vats, as well as stainless steel tanks. With selection by hand, malolactic fermentation is carried out in 100% new oak for up to 18 months.

Average annual production is 40000 bottles, it has been promoted to Grand Cru Classe status in the 2012 classification.

I have recently tasted the 2006 vintage and below is my tasting note:

Acceptable quality St-Emilion of medium ruby color, it has reasonably intense nose showing fairly complex and developing aromas of blackberry and black cherry, liquorice, cedar, earth, coffee and wet leaves. Medium in acidity, the tannin is ripe and velvety, and the wine is fairly full-bodied with palate of fair intensity and complexity, showing black cherry and blackberry, cedar, liquorice. Balanced in structure, it has a reasonable length. Although nothing outstanding, it is a plush and enjoyable wine. It is ready to drink now though can benefit from further ageing of another 3-5 years.