Blanc de Chasse Spleen - Bordeaux 2024
The estate
Chasse Spleen has been managed by women for the past thrity years: Jacques Merlaut's daughter, Bernadette Villars, starting in 1976, followed by her daughter Claire, beginning in 1992, and now her sister, Céline.
In the early 1990s, two hectares were planted with 65% Sémillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc. First released in 1995, the team has since honed their techniques, tasting abilities, and knowledge of white grape varieties, and the Blanc de Chasse-Spleen is now increasingly on par with the best white wines from Bordeaux.
The 2024 vintage
Climatic conditions:
A contrasting 2024 vintage, full of character. After months of continuous rain through to December, the soils were thoroughly saturated. Spring remained wet, bringing its share of challenges—poor flowering, uneven fruit set, and above all, intense mildew pressure. Fortunately, the (slightly late) onset of veraison marked a turning point. Summer finally brought the warmth the vines had been waiting for. Harvest time—some in raincoats, some in t-shirts—revealed a vintage full of surprises: unexpected ripeness, vibrant fruit, and remarkable energy. A wine born from adversity—authentic, expressive, and full of promise.
Tasting notes:
Yellow-green. Franck attack. Corsican lemon, Orange blossom, Passion fruit. Light Terpene touch. Slightly buttery on the palate. Lively, fresh. Finish of Spanish melon