# Château Chasse-Spleen (2021)

- **Producer:** Château Chasse-Spleen
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €35
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, cedar, black cherry, blackcurrant, cloves, vanilla, leather, earth

## About this wine

Château Chasse-Spleen 2021 is a red wine from the Moulis-en-Médoc appellation in Bordeaux, France, produced by Château Chasse-Spleen. The estate's name is linked to Anglo-Saxon culture and literary figures, suggesting a wine intended to uplift the spirit. Managed by Céline Villars since 2000, the estate is situated on soils of Quaternary gravel over chalky-clay. The 2021 vintage experienced cooler and wetter weather, resulting in wines with a fresher profile and higher acidity. The wine is classified as Cru Bourgeois and is known for its consistent quality and refined character.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Chasse-Spleen' translates to 'chase away the blues'.
- Inspired by literary references, including Baudelaire.
- Vine age averages 30-40 years, contributing to wine complexity.
- HVE 3 certified, highlighting environmental commitment.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and robust tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like lamb and beef, helping to cleanse the palate. The wine's inherent structure can also stand up to richer sauces and earthy flavors found in dishes like mushroom risotto or roasted vegetables.

## Wine making process

Château Chasse-Spleen 2021 is produced using a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel and cement vats for about 10 days with pump-overs, followed by a two-week maceration. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, with a portion potentially being new oak, for up to 18 months. Vineyards are farmed with HVE 3 certification, and harvests are manual. The estate's winemaking approach aims to balance fruit expression with structural components suitable for aging.