# Château Mélin 2021 (2021)

- **Producer:** Château Mélin
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €17
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, vanilla, cedar, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Château Mélin 2021 is a red wine from the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation in Bordeaux, France. The estate has been family-owned and operated for seven generations, with the current stewards, Vincent and Thomas Debacque, upholding a legacy of winemaking. The vineyard's location near the Dordogne River and its sandy, gravelly soils are key elements of its terroir. The 2021 vintage was influenced by a warm, dry summer, resulting in wines noted for their freshness and elegance. Château Mélin has held official organic certification since 2009.

## Interesting facts

- Seven generations of winemakers in one family.
- Vineyards near the Dordogne River create a unique micro-climate.
- Soils are comparable to those of the renowned Pomerol appellation.
- Estate has been officially organic certified since 2009.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. The fruit notes in the wine can echo or contrast with sauces, while the wine's structure can cut through fattiness, creating a balanced palate experience.

## Wine making process

Château Mélin 2021 is produced using traditional winemaking methods, including submerged cap fermentation in concrete tanks. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging in oak barrels for about 12 months, with barriques replaced every four years. The estate practices sustainable and organic viticulture, having obtained official organic certification in 2009. Vineyard maintenance relies on natural methods, minimizing chemical inputs. The harvest for the 2021 vintage occurred under warm and dry summer conditions.