France de Pied
Dauzac has always been known as a place of innovation. But now, for once, Château Dauzac is suggesting a visit to the past to rediscover the original flavour of the ‘king of grapes’ – Cabernet Sauvignon – which existed at the time of the 1855 classification of Médoc crus.

This initiative, on which we have been working collectively at the estate for many years, is not only an opportunity for us to get as close as possible to the distinctive expression of our terroirs, combined with a typical grape varietal, it is also a fantastic way to look to the future and get to grips with the upheavals linked to climate change.

2021 Weather Conditions: 
One vintage follows another but no two are alike. The 2021 vintage called for a lot of patience and commitment. We worked relentlessly to protect our vines from disease pressure. The vintage began by an especially mild and rainy winter. Bud break was uniform and occurred early but the extra-cold and rainy spring meant that the head start was soon lost. During the spell of frost in April, Château Dauzac’s vineyards were protected due to their proximity to the Gironde estuary, which acts as a natural thermal regulator. Flowering began around May 25th in ideally warm and dry weather. June was especially rainy, with approximately 127% more rain than average. At times, the rain had an impact on flowering, with traces of coulure (also known as shatter) and millerandage. The cold and damp summer called for watchfulness at all times. Mildew pressure increased and was more intense. Preventing the mildew from developing turned out to be one of the summer’s main goals. Veraison was delayed due to the 20% lack of sunshine, while temperatures remained cool and below average. Uniform veraison was only reached between August 15th and 20th. Harvesting began on September 22nd in our earliest-ripening Merlot plots and ended October 13th with our grand Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, which managed to take advantage of the sunny days after the rainy spell in early October. Plot-by-plot selection and meticulous sorting of the grapes harvested allowed for high-quality winemaking.

Tasting Notes:
Very fresh and comple nose of crisp black and red fruit, paired with a floral bouquet. Notable for its sensationnal minerality, prompting salivation and very nice lengh on the palate. Airy mouthfell with a tannic structure that is expressed with finesse and delicacy.

Reviews by other Critics: N/A

Varietal: Franc de pied ungrafted Cabernet Sauvignon 100%

Harvest Dates: September to October 2021

Production: N/A

Serving Tips: Decant for 1-2 hours before serving to allow aromas to open up. Best enjoyed at 16–18°C (60–65°F).