Growing season weather conditions of the vintage
The winter season had pretty average temperatures but significantly above average rainfalls, which were well absorbed by the gravel soil due to their drainage capacity.
Butt break in the first week of April showed a large potential harvest, which expectation was reduced later. Flowering period was excellent for all vineyard blocks and grape varietals.
From mid July high pressure climate conditions prevailed and did not leave our part of the European continent (with the exception of a few thunder storms) till well after the harvest.
The end of the growing cycle of the vines was marked by high temperatures with relative cool nights predicting already great ripening of the grapes.
The exceptional harvest conditions enabled us to pick the Merlot grapes early and the Cabernets Sauvignons grapes later at perfect maturity. In between we picked perfect ripe Petit Verdot.
The 2018 vintage is designated as one of the greatest Bordeaux vintages.
The cellarmaster’s view
We harvested grapes of very fine quality. Very good weather conditions allowed us to wait for each plot to reach optimal ripeness. The fermentation and extraction process went smoothly. We fermented the musts using a combination of pump-overs, punching down of the cap, and rack and return. The wines were very harmoniously balanced, and the post-fermentation maceration enhanced their flesh and volume.
Tasting notes
“Wonderful purity of fruit and finesse on the nose and palate. Medium body and ultra fine tannins with clarity of fruit and pretty length” (James Suckling).
“An impressive Moulis, Château Branas Grand Poujeaux 2018 offers a soft, rounded, nicely textured style as well as attractive savory red and black fruits, dried herbs, chocolate and subtle herbal notes. A blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot, made with consulting advise from Hubert de Boüard is well worth seeking out” (Jeb Dunnunck)
Harvest date 2018 : Merlot from 22nd till 28th of September Cabernet Sauvignon from 4th till 10th of October Petit Verdot on October 4th
Blend : 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot 70%
Aging : new French oak, 30% second-fill French oak
Length of aging : 14 to 16 months