Château Franc le Maine, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOP 2016

Winery Background and History: Château Franc le Maine is part of Vignobles Bardet, a family-owned estate in the Saint-Émilion region of Bordeaux, France. The Bardet family’s winemaking tradition dates back to 1704, with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. They have implemented practices such as grass cover between vine rows, hedging around plots to restore natural ecosystems, and the use of 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 legacy 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, within the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation. The region’s clay-limestone soils and temperate maritime climate provide ideal conditions for cultivating Merlot and Cabernet Franc, contributing to the wine’s complexity and balance.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used: The 2016 vintage is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. 

Vinification & Aging Methods: While specific vinification details for the 2016 vintage are not provided, Vignobles Bardet is known for combining traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations, ensuring the expression of the vineyard’s terroir in their wines.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 14.5% 

Tasting Notes: The 2016 Château Franc le Maine exhibits a deep purple hue. On the nose, it offers a refreshing bouquet with vibrant expressiveness. The palate is well-balanced, featuring velvety tannins and a lingering finish. This vintage is ready to enjoy now but also has the potential to age gracefully for another 5 years. 

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

Service Methods and Temperatures: To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2016 Château Franc le Maine, 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. Using 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 Château Franc le Maine can develop additional complexity over the next 5 years, with tertiary flavors such as leather, tobacco, and dried fruits emerging over time.