Why it matters
The producer
Château La Croizille has modern architecture and technical facilities. It holds Saint Émilion Grand Cru Classé status and follows a production philosophy built around low yields from the oldest vines, drastic selection, and at least 30 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. That proportion is unusual for the appellation. The château produces red Saint Émilion wine from a compact vineyard and gives Cabernet Sauvignon an unusually large role for the area.
In 2010, Natalie MacLean reviewed Château La Croizille Saint Émilion Grand Cru and gave it 92 out of 100. She paired the bottle with roast rack of lamb or filet mignon, then placed its drinking window through 2035.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Château La Croizille stands at 810, route du Tertre, formerly lieu dit Baladoz, in Saint Laurent des Combes, Saint Émilion. Its neighbour, Château Tour Baladoz, has a traditional winery and can also be visited. La Croizille's modern architecture contrasts with Tour Baladoz's traditional winery.
In the cellar
Vineyards and cellar
The vineyard work begins with low yields from the oldest vines and drastic selection. After double sorting by hand and optical sorting, grapes travel to the vats by gravity, preserving purity. Small temperature controlled vats allow each terroir to be monitored precisely during vinification. French oak barrels are selected for fine grain and a toasting level suited to the vintage. Élevage lasts eighteen to twenty four months, during which the wine rounds out and gains depth.
Wines to know
The range in view
The named bottles include Château La Croizille Grand Cru 2005 and Château La Croizille 2001, both red Saint Émilion wines. The two bottles are identified by vintage, while the documented 2010 wine was a half Cabernet Sauvignon and half Merlot blend. The range therefore includes vintage variation in both bottle naming and grape proportions.
Château La Croizille shows an inky colour and a black fruit nose with toasty overtones. The palate is rich and complex, with great substance, smooth tannin, and intense flavours. The toast comes through as an integrated aromatic note, while the tannin gives the wine a rounded, graceful feel.