Situated between Saint-Emilion and Castillon-la-Bataille, Château des Demoiselles is one of the best-known properties of the area, not only thanks to the quality of its wines but also to its historic past. The name “Demoiselles” derives from the Middle Ages when the property was run by a group of nuns who took care of the vines and kindly taught the children from the parish.

Located between Saint-Emilion and Castillon la Bataille, Château Des Demoiselles is one of the Ducourt family properties.

Blend – 75% Merlot – 25% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaking – Alcoholic fermentation in thermo-regulated stainless-steel vats at around 26°C then a gentle vatting for 3 weeks at 30°C. Running off and pressing, separation of the press and free-run juice. Malolactic fermentation in
thermo-regulated stainless-steel vats at around 18°C. Machine harvesting of the grapes in the cool, early morning. Pre fermentation cold maceration 24-48 hours.

Ageing in oak for 12 months

From an Intense crimson color, the nose reveals delicate and complex aromas of red fruits, oaky vanilla and mocha. In the palate, it unravels velvety tannins, robust and complex flavours, and a beautifully rounded finish.

Food pairings: Delicatessen, red meat, grilled or in a sauce, hard cheeses

This is a generous and fruity wine that has soft tannins. It is dominated by bright acidity, black-currant fruits and a light structure. With its fresh character, it will be ready soon, so drink from 2018 onwards.

Decanter – 91 points

Heady and ripe, this is a strong bold concentrated and powerful wine that is extremely direct and persisted so you get full on blackcurrant liqueur flavours going in one straight line not deviating from the centre making this quite a tense strict wine right now. Limestone markers come through in the wet stone and graphite pencil led elements, giving a nice salinity and minerality to it, but the tannins are super present and coat the mouth. It’s the signature style, really showing off the terroir more than the vintage here, though that comes through in the power of the elements. I actually like this a lot, it feels clean and precise, very detailed and focussed. Good styling and sculpting, well worked, harmonious and although quite savoury I love it. You get the cool freshness at the end, a touch of creaminess to the finish which lingers and is so just appealing and comforting.

James Suckling – 90 points

Wednesday, March 3, 2021 – Plum, currant, black-olive, dried-herb and oyster-shell aromas. It’s medium-bodied with silky tannins and a succulent, savory finish. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast – 88 points

Solid tannins and rich fruit come together in this ripe, still-young wine. It has good potential, with bold black fruit and a dense, mineral texture. It will need several years for those tannins to soften. Drink from 2021.