Tronquoy - Saint-Estèphe 2020
Château Tronquoy, a nonconformist Saint-Estèphe wine
The history of Château Tronquoy began in 1791 with François Tronquoy, who was a visionary in his actions and nonconformist at heart. This spirited founder has created the second oldest vineyard of Saint-Estèphe. For 3 centuries, this cru has been cultivating its singularity in a form of impertinence. The Bouygues family, owner of the estate since 2006, wanted to pay tribute to this past and highlight its values of excellence and innovation by freeing Tronquoy from conventions. In 2022, Tronquoy-Lalande has become Tronquoy and its label now adorns a unique blue color. As for the wine, it remained faithful to its identity: proposing a rare polyvalence and a great freshness. It combines a seductive youth and a remarkable ageing potential. The estate's privileged terroir lies on one of the Médoc's most prestigious geological terraces, known as "Terrasse 3". The deep clay-gravel soils ensure a regular supply of water to the vines. The 2020 vintage
The 2020 vintage was shaped by highly contrasting weather conditions. A mild, wet winter led to early budbreak, followed by a spring alternating between sunshine and heavy rainfall, which triggered mildew pressure and reduced yields. Despite slight coulure, flowering was rapid and even by late May. The hot, dry summer, marked by two heatwaves, caused water stress from late July, alleviated by clay subsoil reserves and mid-August rains. Early September brought berry weight loss, but late-September rainfall allowed Cabernet Sauvignon to reach full ripeness.
Harvesting took place in excellent sanitary conditions from September 11 to 28, delivering healthy fruit. Vinification quickly revealed concentration and deep color. Sixteen distinct lots were identified, reflecting the estate’s terroirs, with Merlot traditionally forming the backbone of the Grand Vin blend.
Tasting notes:
Château Tronquoy 2020 reveals an intense, dark red colour. The nose is charming, with notes of candied black fruit and roasted notes reminiscent of chocolate and vanilla. The palate is enveloping and offers aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and blueberry. A full-body wine supported by a beautiful intensity. The finish is fresh and long.