Chateau Vilatte Bordeaux Superieur 'En Fut'

The Massart family acquired the multi-centennial estate, which was undoubtedly once the Feudal Castle's farmland, in 1973. Here, upon the gravelly-clay soils of the region, they make their wines in a very meticulous fashion. Old vines, low yields, and organic farming are all at play here. The 'En Fut' lets us know that this wine sees some time in French oak, as fut de chene is the French term for an oak barrel. From a very good vintage, the blend is 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged for 12 to 18 months in French barriques (25% new), this stuff is downright sumptuous. Rich and ripe notes of black plum, cassis, cedar, chocolate, and spice box are all on display here. Drinking great now, this "Saint Emilion lookalike" will continue to offer up the goods for another 5 to 7 years.