# Chateau Cap Saint-Martin (2018)

- **Producer:** Chateau Cap Saint-Martin
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €10
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** ripe fruit, red fruit, black fruit, vanilla, cedar, smoke, toast, spice, leather, tobacco

## About this wine

Chateau Cap Saint-Martin is a red Bordeaux blend from the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, produced by the Ardoin family, who have been winemakers for six generations. The 2018 vintage, known for its ripe fruit and structure, was crafted from predominantly Merlot grapes. The estate is situated north of Bordeaux, overlooking the Gironde estuary, and is managed with a philosophy of continuous quality improvement. The wine is a testament to the family's long-standing commitment to their terroir and winemaking tradition.

## Interesting facts

- The Ardoin family's winemaking history at this estate spans over 150 years.
- The estate overlooks the scenic Gironde estuary.
- Rigorous plot selection is a key part of their quality control.
- Leaf stripping in July helps ensure optimal grape ripening.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus tannins and ripe fruit character complement the protein and fat in red meats, while its structure can stand up to richer sauces. The subtle oak notes can echo earthy flavors in dishes like mushroom sauces or roasted root vegetables.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process at Chateau Cap Saint-Martin begins with mechanical harvesting and sorting of the grapes. A three-day pre-fermentation maceration is followed by alcoholic fermentation using natural yeasts, with temperatures carefully controlled between 25-28°C. Post-fermentation maceration lasts for three weeks to enhance color, tannins, and flavor extraction. The wine is then aged for 12 months, with 50% in stainless steel and 50% in barrels, before bottling.