Château Moulin de Curat Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion 2020

Winery Background and History

Château Moulin de Curat is owned by the Robin family, whose viticultural heritage in the Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion region dates back to the 17th century. The estate has been meticulously managed across generations, emphasizing a philosophy of “Quality before Quantity.” This commitment ensures that each bottle reflects the family’s dedication to producing authentic and balanced wines that honor the rich history of the appellation.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the stewardship of Jean-François Robin, Château Moulin de Curat continues its legacy of crafting wines that embody the essence of the Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion terroir. The winemaking approach focuses on achieving balance and authenticity, resulting in wines with delicate textures, soft tannins, and appealing fruit aromas. The estate’s adherence to sustainable practices further underscores its dedication to quality and environmental stewardship.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Situated on a hillside in the village of Puisseguin, just a few kilometers from Saint-Émilion, the vineyards of Château Moulin de Curat benefit from clayey limestone soils. This soil composition provides excellent drainage and mineral richness, contributing to the development of complex flavors in the grapes. The region’s temperate climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, coupled with optimal rainfall, creates favorable conditions for vine growth and grape maturation, ensuring the production of high-quality fruit.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Château Moulin de Curat practices sustainable farming, certified by Terra Vitis, reflecting their commitment to environmental responsibility. The vinification process involves careful selection of grapes, followed by fermentation designed to preserve the fruit’s natural characteristics. Aging typically occurs in oak barrels, which imparts additional complexity and structure to the wine. The duration and specifics of the aging process are tailored to enhance the wine’s balance and aging potential.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 vintage of Château Moulin de Curat is anticipated to exhibit a deep ruby color with a bouquet rich in ripe red and black fruits, complemented by subtle hints of spice and oak. On the palate, the wine is expected to be well-balanced, showcasing a harmonious blend of fruitiness and tannic structure, leading to a smooth and enduring finish. The delicate texture and soft tannins reflect the estate’s dedication to producing elegant and approachable wines.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs exceptionally well with roasted duck and chicken, grilled beef, or hearty stews. Its balanced acidity and tannins complement the richness of these dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. Additionally, it can be enjoyed alongside a selection of aged cheeses, where its fruit-forward profile and subtle spice notes provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of Château Moulin de Curat 2020, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 16-18°C (61-64°F). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving can help in aerating and unlocking its full aromatic potential. Using a Bordeaux-style glass will further enhance the tasting experience by directing the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2020 vintage possesses good aging potential, with an optimal drinking window extending from 2023 to 2030. Proper storage is essential to preserve its quality; bottles should be kept horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity levels. Over time, the wine is expected to develop additional complexity, with evolving flavors and aromas that will reward patient cellaring.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The blend for Château Moulin de Curat typically consists of 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. This composition allows for a harmonious balance of Merlot’s plush fruitiness, Cabernet Franc’s aromatic finesse, and Cabernet Sauvignon’s structural backbone, resulting in a wine of depth and elegance.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The alcohol content for Château Moulin de Curat is approximately 13.5%, aligning with the classic profile of wines from the Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion appellation. This moderate ABV contributes to the wine’s balanced and approachable character.