# Château de Lauga Cru Artisan (2014)

- **Producer:** Château de Lauga
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Carmenère
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €16
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 17–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cedar, black pepper, black cherry, blackcurrant, raspberry, red cherry, cloves, vanilla, earth, leather, tobacco

## About this wine

Château de Lauga 2014 is a red wine from the Haut-Médoc appellation in Bordeaux, France. It is produced by Château de Lauga, a family-run estate with a seven-generation history. The wine holds the 'Cru Artisan' classification, indicating an autonomous, small- to medium-sized estate where the manager is actively involved in vineyard operations and bottling. The vineyard is situated in Cussac-Fort-Médoc, north of Bordeaux, between the renowned Pauillac and Margaux appellations, on primarily gravelly soils. The 2014 vintage in Bordeaux experienced a mild winter and a warm spring, followed by significant rainfall, presenting a unique character for the year.

## Interesting facts

- Cru Artisan status highlights small, owner-managed estates.
- Vineyard is strategically located between Pauillac and Margaux.
- Seven generations of family winemaking history.
- Sustainable viticulture with high environmental certifications.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, creating a balanced palate. Its inherent structure can stand up to robust flavors, while subtle herbal or earthy notes in the wine can echo those found in dishes featuring herbs or game.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process at Château de Lauga involves manual harvesting, followed by fermentation with pigeages (punching down the cap). Interventions are kept to a minimum, with a reasoned approach to sulfur usage, including some cuvées made without added sulfur. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for 12 to 18 months, with a small proportion of new oak. The estate practices sustainable viticulture, holding Terra Vitis and Haute Valeur Environnementale Niveau 3 certifications.