Wines

One of the jewels in the crown of the Yvon Mau estates for over 100 years has been Chateau Ducla. Situated in the heart of the beautiful Entre-Deux-Mers appellation, the estate consists of 222 acres of vines, producing Estate Bottled red, white and rose wines. This vast rolling area has long held a reputation for producing soft, easy-drinking, merlot based reds, as well as delicate, full-fruit Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon based whites. It is here that winemaker Florence Forgas, working closely with proprietor Jean-Pierre Mau, endeavors to improve and perfect the style of the wines through an intense and exhaustive program of experimentation, and strict quality control. This diligent focus on quality has earned the estate the prestigious ISO 9001 certification, the first ever in the wine industry. This is the highest certification awarded by the prestigious international Standards Organization. Selection is also a key ingredient in the quality story of Chateau Ducla. Capable of producing 52,000 cases of wine in any given year, the winemaker and proprietor select only the finest lots of grapes from their vineyards, to create the wine that will be called Chateau Ducla. Current production is 36,000 cases.

Tasting Notes

The essence of this region is the production of its charming and elegant white wines. Chateau Ducla leads the way in perfecting and enhancing that style through continued experimentation with clonal variations, barrel selection, and yeast contact. The Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon create a fresh herbaceous wine with soft body. The addition of Muscadelle and Sauvignon Gris (a mutation of Sauvignon Blanc) enhances the aroma and adds complexity to the wine on the palate.

Wine Making

Grapes sorted by hand on the vines. Pressing (pneumatic press), separation of the free-run and press juices followed by settling of the must at low temperatures. Alcoholic fermentation under temperature control in stainless-steel vats for 10 days to 3 weeks. Matured on the fine lees.

Acclaim

Best Bordeaux Buys under $25
- Wine Enthusiast Magazine - June 2007

Food Affinities

Pleasant as an aperitif or served with grilled fish or a seafood platter.

Blend

55% Semillon
35% Sauvignon
10% Muscadelle