Chateau Bel Air Gloria Cru Bourgeois 2018

Produced by Château Bel Air Gloria in the Haut-Médoc appellation, this Cru Bourgeois is crafted under the same ownership and winemaking philosophy as the renowned Château Gloria of neighbouring Saint-Julien. The estate was acquired by the legendary Henri Martin in 1980, adding another exceptional property to the family portfolio that helped cement his reputation as one of the most influential figures in modern Bordeaux. Today, Bel Air Gloria is managed by the Martin family under the direction of Jean-Louis Triaud, with the same meticulous attention to detail that has made Château Gloria one of the Médoc's benchmark estates. The vineyards are planted on classic Haut-Médoc gravel ridges over blue clay subsoils, where the combination of excellent drainage and the moderating influence of the Gironde Estuary produces grapes of remarkable balance, freshness and structure. Sustainably farmed and hand harvested, the fruit is treated with the same care and precision as the family's more famous wines.

The 2018 vintage is a classic Left Bank Bordeaux blend led by Cabernet Sauvignon and complemented by Merlot, fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks before maturing for around 12 months in French oak barrels, approximately a quarter of which are new. The exceptional conditions of the 2018 vintage produced a wine of depth and concentration while retaining the elegance that defines the Martin family's style. Aromas of cassis, blackberry and black cherry are layered with notes of cedar, graphite, violets, tobacco leaf and subtle spice. The palate is refined and beautifully structured, with polished tannins, vibrant acidity and a long, savoury finish. Offering much of the character and pedigree associated with Château Gloria at a more accessible price, Château Bel Air Gloria 2018 is an outstanding example of why this Cru Bourgeois is regarded as one of the Haut-Médoc's finest values.