Le Dome, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux
Le Dome, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux
A brief history of Le Dome, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux
Le Dôme is one of the standout stars of the Bordeaux right bank, specifically in the Saint-Émilion appellation, renowned for its innovative approach and the exceptional quality of its wine. This boutique vineyard was established in the early 1990s by Jonathan Maltus, an Englishman who became one of the pioneering figures in the region's "garagiste" movement, which emphasises small-scale, high-quality winemaking. Maltus is still at the helm but, today, Czech Republic-based J&T Finance Group has a majority stake in Le Dôme. Le Dôme 's debut vintage quickly garnered critical acclaim, distinguishing the estate with its unique focus on Cabernet Franc, a varietal that is typically used as a blending grape in Bordeaux. This distinctive approach has set Le Dôme apart, showcasing the potential of Cabernet Franc when it is the primary focus, supported by Merlot to add softness and complexity.
Le Dome, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux overview
Situated on the prestigious limestone plateau of Saint-Émilion, Le Dôme 's vineyards are planted with an unusually high proportion of Cabernet Franc, around 80%, with the remaining 20% Merlot. This varietal composition is almost unheard of in Bordeaux, where Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon usually dominate. The choice of Cabernet Franc allows Le Dôme to produce a wine with remarkable depth, structure and aromatic complexity, Le Dôme 's first wine is celebrated for its complexity and the unique expression of Cabernet Franc, offering a different perspective on Saint-Émilion terroir. The 2010 vintage received a perfect 100 points from eminent US wine critic, Robert Parker. This contributed to Le Dôme becoming one of the most exciting and sought-after wines in the region.
Performance
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Understanding Le Dome, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux
The winemaking philosophy at Le Dôme is driven by precision and attention to detail, to express the unique characteristics of its terroir and varietals. The grapes are meticulously sorted and fermented in temperature-controlled vats, followed by ageing in French oak barrels, a significant proportion of which are new. This careful maturation process not only integrates the oak flavours seamlessly into the wine but also allows the distinctive qualities of the Cabernet Franc to shine, resulting in a wine that balances intensity with elegance. Le Dôme boasts ripe red and black fruit, violet and a hint of minerality, underpinned by a structure that ensures it ages gracefully.