Region: St. Emilion, Burgundy, France

Vintage: 2020

Composition: 90% Merlot 6% Cabernet Sauvignon & 4% Cabernet Franc

History: Chateau Valandraud is represented by the passion of a couple: Jean-Luc Thunevin and Murielle Andraud. Following the tremendous success of the wine merchant business in Saint Emilion, they opened their vineyard to produce their wine. In 1989, they bought a small parcel of 0.6 hectares (1.48 acres) in a small valley near Saint Emilion between Pavie-Macquin and La Clotte. The origin of the wine name is as much geographic (Val: Vallon de Fongaban) as sentimental (Andraud: Murielle’s maiden name). Thus, Chateau Valandraud was born. Little by little, Jean-Luc and his wife purchased several other parcels of vines. Now, the domain represents a total surface of 10 hectares (24.71 acres) located in various areas of Saint Emilion. The diversity of soils and varietals permit the production of 6 different wines: Chateau Valandraud, Chateau Valandraud Casher, Virginie de Valandraud, and the three de Valandraud (the second wine of Chateau Valandraud and Virginie de Valandraud), Blanc de Valandraud N° 1 and N° 2. The final blending of the various parcels occurs in March, following a blind tasting with the help of the world-famous oenologist Michel Rolland.

Tasting Notes:

“Made in a ripe, sexy, plush style, it brings an incredible amount of ripe black fruit, chocolate, vanilla, espresso, and leafy herb-like aromas and flavors. This carries to a full-bodied, powerful Saint-Emilion that stays weightless and graceful on the palate, with moderate acidity, ripe tannins, and a great finish.” – Jeb Dunnuck.