Grape varieties:
75% Merlot
24% Cabernet-Franc
1% Cabernet-Sauvignon
Average age of the vines: 38 years old
Terroir: Siliceous-clay over iron deposits and ancient sands over clay
Number of vines planted: Between 6 000 and 8 000 / hectare
Vine growing methods: ploughing or a grass cover crop without any use of weedkillers. From 1996 the vines were grown according to integrated and sustainable farming principles (with AFAQAFNOR certification since 2005) as part of a sustainable economy approach (Terra Vitis charter). No herbicides have ever been used.
In 2004 we conducted trials on a part of the vineyard following the principles of organic farming, before converting fully to organic farming in 2010.
In 2013 we acquired “Organic Wine” certification. Since 2018 we have trialled a number of plots using biodynamic practices.
Green vine work: de-budding, removal of double buds, de-leafings, de-suckering (lateral shoots), crop thinning if required.
Harvests: Picked by hand, with 5 successive stages of sorting.
Rendement moyen: 35 à 40 hl/ha
Vinification: Various procedures that vary from one batch to another : everal short stages of pumping-over, release of the juice, punching the cap.
Ageing: 40% to 60% new barrels, 35% to 50% 1-year old barrels.
Bottling: 21 months after the harvest
Average annual production: 70,000 to 100,000 bottles depending on the vintage
Second wine: Petit Corbin-Despagne - Saint-Emilion Grand Cru
A linear and fine red with very polished tannins. Medium- to full-bodied, refined and pretty. Long and very polished. Drink in 2020. - James Suckling 93 Points
Cassis, black cherries, toasty oak and licorice aromas all dominate the bouquet of the 2015 Chateau Grand Corbin-Despagne, and it’s medium to full-bodied, concentrated, and balanced on the palate. With solid mid-palate density, ripe tannin, a charming, opulent style, and plenty of length, give bottles 2-3 years and enjoy over the following decade. This cuvee is 75% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 50% new barrels. - Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Grand Corbin-Despagne has gorgeous purity of crushed black cherries and blackberries on the nose with hints of fragrant earth, roses and menthol plus a waft of unsmoked cigars. The medium-bodied palate is firm with energetic fruit, a lively backbone and a long, earthy finish. - Robert Parker 91 Points
Consistent as usual; lots of energy and character. Bright, lifted aromatics and suave texture and tannins. Length and drive on the finish. Harmonious and beautifully poised. - Decanter Magazine 91 Points
