Croix-MoutonMerlot

Chteau Croix MoutonLugonIle de Carney Dordogne

Jean-Philippe JanoueixJoseph Janoueix1898Jean-Philippe Janoueix1994

M

98% Merlot,2% Cabernet Franc

140cm

3-4

2016Croix Mouton

Croix Mouton produces wines intended for pleasure, and excellent while still young. Almost entirely Merlot driven, they are full bodied and rich in flavour, easy to drink but with finesse and a stunning display of fresh red fruit on the palate. After the release of its first vintage, Chteau Croix Mouton was very quickly recognised by Bordeaux wine experts as being excellent value for money.

Chteau Croix Mouton is positioned in the commune of Lugon, on the clay soils of Ile de Carney. The setting is bucolic with true rural charm, and during the harvest period we take in the early-morning sunrise over the misty Dordogne river from the winery. As the day passes, sail boats and cruisers occasionally glide past, punctuating the still calm.

Founder Jean-Philippe Janoueix comes from the revered Bordeaux winemaking dynasty. The family business was created in 1898 by Joseph Janoueix, with Jean-Philippe Janoueix establishing his own branch of the business in 1994.

The M on Chteau Croix Moutons label is special. It changes shape and colour each year to reflect the personality of each vintage.

Appellation:
Bordeaux Superieur

Country of Origin:
France

Type:
Red/Rouge (Still)

Grape Variety:
98% Merlot,2% Cabernet Franc

Soil:
Clayey and alluvial

Vinification:
Vinification in concrete and stainless steel vats widely open at 140cm for pigage. Malolactic fermentation in barrels and in vats with staves.

Ageing:
Maturing on lees during 3-4 months.

Tasting Notes:
The 2016 Croix Mouton has an attractive, perfumed, floral bouquet with crushed violet petals infusing the ripe black cherry and cassis fruit. I appreciate the elegance on display here. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, well judged acidity, a pleasant saline and black olive note surfacing towards the fresh finish. This Bordeaux Suprieur from Jean-Philippe Janoueix can often punch above its class and the 2016 is one of those.