1998 Christophe Reboul Salze Cuvee Viva Gironde Haut Medoc Premieres Cote de Blaye Reboul Salze

Premieres Cotes de Blaye

90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon

35 hL 114 hL – 10% Cabernet Franc Cuvee Viva 100% Merlot

40% 14

Chateau Gigualt was created in 1998. The owner, Christophe Reboul Salze, named Cuvee Viva from Chateau Gigault, after his late daughter who passed away that same year in 1998. Located on the left bank of the Gironde River, directly across from Haut-Medoc, is the Premieres Cote de Blaye appellation, Chateau Gigault Cuvee Viva was the second purchase of a Bordeaux chateau for Reboul Salze.

Appellation:
Premieres Cotes de Blaye, Bordeaux

Country of Origin:
Bordeaux, France

Type:
Red/Rouge (Still)

Grape Varieties:
90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon

Vinification:
To produce the wine of Gigault Cuvee Viva, the grapes are whole berry fermented. Vinification takes place in a combination of small, cement vats and stainless steel tanks that vary in size. To allow for precise vinification on a parcel by parcel basis, the vats range in size from as small as 35 hectoliters to as large as 114 hectoliters. Malolactic fermentation takes place in a combination of oak barrels and vat. Even though the vineyard includes 10% Cabernet Franc, Gigault Cuvee Viva is often close to 100% Merlot in the blend.

Ageing:
In 40% new, French oak barrels for an average of 14 months.

Tasting Notes:
Has a notable density and richness of colour and aroma. Lots of glossy black fruit and spice on the nose. The palate shows sweet, ripe fruit and supple, velvet tannins. Despite the weight the wine has admirable density and precision.