Chateau Marquis de Terme 2007

Winery Background and History

Château Marquis de Terme, located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France, is a distinguished Fourth Growth estate, as classified in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. The estate’s history dates back to the 17th century, with ownership passing through several notable families, including the Marquis de Terme, from whom it derives its name. Today, the estate spans approximately 40 hectares, with vineyards planted on deep gravel soils that contribute to the elegance and complexity characteristic of Margaux wines.

Producer and Winemaker

Château Marquis de Terme is currently owned by the Sénéclauze family, who have invested significantly in modernizing the estate while preserving its rich heritage. The winemaking team focuses on combining traditional methods with modern techniques to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of Margaux.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The estate’s 40 hectares of vineyards are situated on the Left Bank of the Gironde estuary, benefiting from a temperate maritime climate. The proximity to the estuary provides a moderating effect, reducing the risk of frost and promoting a long growing season. The vineyards are planted on deep gravel soils, which offer excellent drainage and heat retention, aiding in the optimal ripening of the grapes. The vine density is approximately 10,000 vines per hectare, encouraging competition among vines and resulting in lower yields of high-quality fruit. Sustainable viticultural practices are employed, including manual harvesting and careful canopy management, to ensure the health of the vines and the expression of the terroir in the wines.

Grape Varietals

The 2007 vintage of Château Marquis de Terme is a blend of:

• Cabernet Sauvignon

• Merlot

• Petit Verdot

The exact proportions of each varietal in the blend are not specified.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The vinification process begins with meticulous sorting of the grapes to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel and concrete vats, allowing for precise control over the fermentation process. Following alcoholic fermentation, malolactic fermentation takes place in tanks. The wine is then aged for approximately 16 months in French oak barrels, with about 50% being new oak. This aging process imparts subtle oak characteristics and enhances the wine’s structure and aging potential. Throughout the aging period, the wine is regularly monitored and racked to achieve clarity and stability.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2007 Château Marquis de Terme has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 13%.

Tasting Notes

The 2007 Château Marquis de Terme exhibits a deep garnet-red color. The nose is relatively reticent, with woody notes. The palate is more expressive, highlighting a nice compromise between fruit and wood. The wine offers lovely length and shows promise for further development. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb or beef, and hearty dishes like cassoulet or beef stew. It also complements aged cheeses, particularly hard varieties like Comté or cheddar. The wine’s structure and depth enhance the flavors of rich, savory dishes, making it a versatile choice for various cuisines.

Service Methods and Temperatures

It is recommended to decant the 2007 Château Marquis de Terme for about an hour before serving to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic profile. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F) to fully appreciate its complexity and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2007 vintage of Château Marquis de Terme is suitable for aging and is expected to develop further complexity over the next 5-10 years. Proper cellaring conditions, with a consistent temperature of around 12-15°C (54-59°F) and humidity levels of 70-75%, will ensure the wine matures gracefully.

Winery Background and History

Château Marquis de Terme, located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France, is a distinguished Fourth Growth estate, as classified in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. The estate’s history dates back to the 17th century, with ownership passing through several notable families, including the Marquis de Terme, from whom it derives its name. Today, the estate spans approximately 40 hectares, with vineyards planted on deep gravel soils that contribute to the elegance and complexity characteristic of Margaux wines.

Producer and Winemaker

Château Marquis de Terme is currently owned by the Sénéclauze family, who have invested significantly in modernizing the estate while preserving its rich heritage. The winemaking team focuses on combining traditional methods with modern techniques to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of Margaux.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The estate’s 40 hectares of vineyards are situated on the Left Bank of the Gironde estuary, benefiting from a temperate maritime climate. The proximity to the estuary provides a moderating effect, reducing the risk of frost and promoting a long growing season. The vineyards are planted on deep gravel soils, which offer excellent drainage and heat retention, aiding in the optimal ripening of the grapes. The vine density is approximately 10,000 vines per hectare, encouraging competition among vines and resulting in lower yields of high-quality fruit. Sustainable viticultural practices are employed, including manual harvesting and careful canopy management, to ensure the health of the vines and the expression of the terroir in the wines.

Grape Varietals

The 2007 vintage of Château Marquis de Terme is a blend of:

• Cabernet Sauvignon

• Merlot

• Petit Verdot

The exact proportions of each varietal in the blend are not specified.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The vinification process begins with meticulous sorting of the grapes to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel and concrete vats, allowing for precise control over the fermentation process. Following alcoholic fermentation, malolactic fermentation takes place in tanks. The wine is then aged for approximately 16 months in French oak barrels, with about 50% being new oak. This aging process imparts subtle oak characteristics and enhances the wine’s structure and aging potential. Throughout the aging period, the wine is regularly monitored and racked to achieve clarity and stability.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2007 Château Marquis de Terme has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 13%.

Tasting Notes

The 2007 Château Marquis de Terme exhibits a deep garnet-red color. The nose is relatively reticent, with woody notes. The palate is more expressive, highlighting a nice compromise between fruit and wood. The wine offers lovely length and shows promise for further development. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb or beef, and hearty dishes like cassoulet or beef stew. It also complements aged cheeses, particularly hard varieties like Comté or cheddar. The wine’s structure and depth enhance the flavors of rich, savory dishes, making it a versatile choice for various cuisines.

Service Methods and Temperatures

It is recommended to decant the 2007 Château Marquis de Terme for about an hour before serving to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic profile. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F) to fully appreciate its complexity and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2007 vintage of Château Marquis de Terme is suitable for aging and is expected to develop further complexity over the next 5-10 years. Proper cellaring conditions, with a consistent temperature of around 12-15°C (54-59°F) and humidity levels of 70-75%, will ensure the wine matures gracefully.