# Château La France Delhomme (2016)

- **Producer:** Bouey Père Et Fils
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 17–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** dried herbs, blackberry, plum, liquorice, blackcurrant, red cherry, chocolate, toasted bread, vanilla

## About this wine

Château La France Delhomme Médoc 2016 is a red wine from the Bordeaux region, produced by Bouey Père et Fils. Notably, it is made from 100% Merlot, which is distinctive for the Médoc appellation. The estate itself has a long history, with roots dating back to the 18th century, and features a classified historical monument, an 18th-century pigeon tower. The producer, Bouey Père et Fils, is an independent family company with a long-standing tradition in Bordeaux winemaking. The 2016 vintage benefited from excellent growing conditions in Bordeaux, characterized by a favorable climate that supported consistent grape ripening.

## Interesting facts

- A 100% Merlot from the Médoc is unusual for Bordeaux's Left Bank.
- The estate features a historic 18th-century pigeon tower.
- The wine is named Château La France to honor its historical name and the family's passion.
- The 2016 vintage received a Gold Medal at the Concours de Bordeaux.

## Food pairing

The wine's structure, with its ripe tannins and medium-plus body, makes it well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like lamb and beef. Herbal notes in the wine can echo seasonings used in dishes, while earthy flavors find a natural partner in mushrooms.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Château La France Delhomme Médoc 2016 involves fermentation, likely in controlled temperature environments. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes 12 months of aging in oak barrels, utilizing a combination of new, first-use, and second-use barrels. This aging regimen is designed to integrate oak influences and refine the wine's structure. The producer employs sustainable agriculture practices in their vineyards. Some winemaking approaches may also include aging in amphoras and stainless steel tanks.