Château Franc le Maine, “Dirty South,” Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOP 2016

Winery Background and History: Château Franc le Maine is a notable estate within the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation of Bordeaux, France. The estate is part of Vignobles Bardet, a family-owned operation with a winemaking heritage dating back to 1704. The Bardet family is committed to sustainable viticulture, implementing practices such as grass cover between vine rows, hedging around plots to restore natural ecosystems, and utilizing geothermal energy. These efforts have earned them High Environmental Value (HVE) certification.

Producer and Winemaker: Philippe Bardet oversees the winemaking process at Château Franc le Maine, upholding the family’s tradition of producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of Saint-Émilion.

Vineyards and Microclimate: The vineyards of Château Franc le Maine are situated on the prestigious right bank of Bordeaux, characterized by clay-limestone soils. The temperate maritime climate, with its balanced rainfall and sunshine, provides ideal conditions for cultivating Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the primary grape varieties of the region.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used: The 2016 “Dirty South” cuvée is a blend predominantly composed of Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc.

Vinification & Aging Methods: While specific vinification details for the “Dirty South” 2016 vintage are not readily available, Vignobles Bardet is known for combining traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations. This approach ensures the expression of the vineyard’s terroir, with careful attention to fermentation temperatures and aging processes to enhance the wine’s complexity and balance.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume): Approximately 14.5%

Tasting Notes: The 2016 “Dirty South” Saint-Émilion Grand Cru presents a deep ruby to purple hue. On the nose, it reveals a fresh, dynamic, and expressive bouquet, characterized by ripe red fruits and subtle floral notes. The palate is elegant and persistent, with well-integrated tannins and a harmonious balance between fruit and acidity, leading to a refined finish.

Food & Wine Pairing: This wine pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. It complements red meats such as beef tenderloin, lamb chops, and venison. Additionally, it pairs nicely with dishes featuring legumes like lentils and accompanies fruity, umami-rich cheeses such as Cheddar and Gouda. The wine’s structure and acidity make it a versatile companion for hearty and flavorful dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures: To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2016 “Dirty South,” it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 64°F). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving can help open up its aromatic profile and soften the tannins. Utilizing Bordeaux-style wine glasses will enhance the tasting experience by concentrating the bouquet and directing the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate.

Storage and Aging Potential: When stored under optimal conditions—away from direct light, at a consistent temperature of 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F), and with controlled humidity—the 2016 “Dirty South” has the potential to develop additional complexity over the next 5 to 7 years. As it ages, expect the emergence of tertiary flavors such as leather, tobacco, and dried fruits, adding depth to the wine’s profile.