Hortevie, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux
Hortevie, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux
A brief history of Hortevie, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux
Hortevie is a hidden gem within the prestigious Saint-Julien appellation of Bordeaux, France. Though not as widely known as some of its illustrious neighbours, this estate has a rich history that dates to the 19th century. “Chateau” Hortevie was bought by Bruno Borie from the Pradere family, producing his first vintage in 2006. Soon after, the word “Chateau” was removed from the property’s name and wine made by Borie’s team is now simply labelled “Hortevie”. Originally part of the vast domains owned by the Borie family, who are renowned for their significant contributions to Bordeaux viticulture, Hortevie stands out for its distinctive approach to winemaking and its commitment to quality. Over the years, Hortevie has been carefully managed to produce wines that reflect the unique terroir of Saint-Julien, with a focus on crafting expressions that are both true to the region's heritage and appealing to modern palates.
Hortevie, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux overview
Spanning a modest area, the vineyards of Hortevie are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, mirroring the classic Bordeaux blend. The estate benefits from the same meticulous attention to detail in viticulture and winemaking practices that characterise the more prominent properties owned by the Borie family. The gravelly soils of Saint-Julien, coupled with the estate's strategic location, contribute to the development of grapes with excellent maturity and balance, foundational to the production of high-quality wines. Hortevie's wines are known for their approachable character when young, yet they possess an admirable ageing potential. This makes Hortevie a favourite among those who appreciate the subtleties of fine Bordeaux without the need for extensive cellaring. The estate's dedication to producing wines of character and quality ensures that Hortevie, though small, stands proudly among the notable names of Saint-Julien.
Performance
Sign up for free to unlock chart data
or Sign in
Understanding Hortevie, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux
The philosophy at Hortevie centres on expressing the distinctiveness of its terroir through careful vineyard management and a tailored approach to winemaking. This includes selective handpicking of grapes, precise control of fermentation temperatures and judicious ageing for 12 to 14 months in 25% new French oak barrels. The property’s first wine displays a bouquet rich in dark fruits, subtle spices, and a hint of earthiness in a balanced, finessed palate with silky tannins and layers of complexity that unfold beautifully over time.