Château la Gaffelière 2018

Vintage 2018
Distinguished by its excellent ripeness and generous fruit expression. The nose reveals aromas of ripe dark fruits, cherry, and plum, complemented by spicy and subtle woody notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, supported by silky, well-integrated tannins. The wine offers a fine balance of richness, freshness, and elegance, with a persistent and harmonious finish.

Vineyard
Area : 22 hectares
Soil : limestone plateau, clay-limestone slopes, more siliceous soils at the foot of the slope

Aging
14 months in barrels, 50% new (French oak)

Blend
58% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Franc

Serving
Ideal temperature: 16–18 °C
A brief decanting of one hour is recommended in its youth to fully reveal its aromatic bouquet.

Storage
Can be enjoyed now after aeration,
or stored in the cellar for another 15–20 years, depending on your tasting preferences and storage conditions.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) – 99/100
March 2021
"La Gaffelière 2018 is undoubtedly one of the standout wines of the vintage. Imposing in stature and vertical elevation, the 2018 dazzles from the start. Aromas of dark fruit, mocha, spices, licorice, and leather are found in this deep and wonderfully supple Saint-Émilion. The 2018 is rich, profound, and beautifully resonant, with extraordinary depth and an impressive stature that unfolds, all framed by mineral notes that give it vitality. La Gaffelière is distinctive, alluring, and striking from the outset. Once again, a magnificent performance from this rejuvenated estate."

Decanter (Jane Anson) – 96/100
July 2019
"La Gaffelière has truly begun to shine with its latest release, and it is certainly a property to watch. Confirming my thoughts during the En Primeur tastings, it is a powerful wine with rich creaminess through the mid-palate. There is no doubt about its aging potential, and the blend is perfect between the limestone’s saline lick and the exuberant, grumbling fruit of Saint-Émilion. A delicious wine, complex yet without heaviness, with layers of tannins that integrate rather than overwhelm."

James Suckling – 95-96/100
April 2019
"The blue-fruit and sea-salt character is captivating here. Full-bodied yet tight and highly concentrated. It lingers in the mouth for minutes. Powerful yet also full of finesse."