~ Biodynamic Estate ~

What is to be a Biodynamic Estate ?:

Vintage 2016 Barrel Tasting at Chateau Palmer.

3rd Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux Apellation Paulliac.

07 – 04 – 2017 An Interview with Mr. Thomas Duroux, Palmer’s CEO,is part of a new generation of winemakers.

What is Biodynamic wines ?

In a simplest way avoiding sulfates and follow organic agriculture.
All of Palmer’s 66 hectares (there are 18 different types of soil on our 66 hectares) of vineyards have been farmed biodynamically as of the Bordeaux 2014 vintage, and official biodynamic certification is expected in 2017 said by the CEO Mr. Duroux of Ch. Palmer. Only around 2% of vineyards across France are certified biodynamic, but Duroux believes its principles underpin a shift towards organic methods.

Could you describe the style of Palmer wines?

It is original for Medoc region because there is a high proportion of merlot. They are Margaux wines, with this subtlety, this elegance, this precision, but they are above all Palmer wines, often described as velvety, which comes from these very old merlots on great soils.

“2014 was the first vintage when all our vineyards were biodynamic” and One of the top 10 Wines Tasted at En Primeur So Far

Could you describe the style of Palmer wines?:

It is original for Medoc region because there is a high proportion of merlot. They are Margaux wines, with this subtlety, this elegance, this precision, but they are above all Palmer wines, often described as velvety, which comes from these very old merlots on great soils.

Alter Ego 2016 Barrel Sample (Pauillac); 95-100 points:

Thanks to a selection of parcels, and a winemaking seeking fruity aromas and subtle tannins, Alter Ego is designed to be drunk before five to 10 years. Is often described as a model of the Pauillac appellation. It is very robust and dense, with a fine colour, Beautiful dark red colour. The nose is reserved, but already has good depth and complexity. The wood is well integrated under the characteristic notes of fresh red fruit, dominated by blackcurrants.The fruit maintains a good presence. The overall impression is already very well balanced.

Chateau Palmer 2016 Barrel Sample(Pauillac); 98-100 points:

Palmer is a wine much more anchored in its soil.

Potentially an 100-point wine, this is beautifully ripe and rich, with sweet tannins as well as opulent black fruit tones. A higher than usual proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend gives the wine its density, sophistication and great sense of presence. The elegance to the tannins this year that is remarkable.

Price Point:

The feedback, and reviews about the vintage 2016 are very good so far. 2015 vintage were quite high in price comparable to low priced 2014 were better. Must wait and see.