Château Séraphine, Pomerol, Bordeaux 2018

Château Séraphine was named as one of only five Bordeaux Properties in Wine Advocate’s ‘Top 100 wine discoveries of 2020’

The Pomerol appellation and its boundaries were only officially recognised in 1928 but the uniqueness of the divergent terroirs and soils here have remained unchanged for millions of years, combining a complex blend of clay, gravel, sand, crasse de fer and iron oxide, although it is the clay laden soils that produce the richest, densest, most opulent and flamboyant wines of sensuous and rich character.

Clay is a product of degraded limestone, which takes place because limestone is high in pH and calcium, which eventually breaks down due to time and erosion. Clay soils can also contain a high level of CEC, (Cation Exchange Capacity) which is important as it allows the soils to help bring more nutrients to the vines.

However, it is the famous blue clay or ‘smectite’ which is estimated to be close to 40 million years old and is incredibly dense that is so special as in wet vintages it acts as a sponge with an incredible ability to expand and retain water, but when the dry summer months arrive, the vines are still able to feed on the much needed moisture.

Chateau Séraphine also benefits in parts from this miracle clay which helps produce great wines that are sensuous and hedonistic, offering complex perfumes of truffles, chocolate, flowers, dark cherries, plums and exotic spices, that not only entice and beguile, but also reward careful cellaring and patience.