![Château Tour des Termes - Explore 2024 [Merlot] - Haut-Médoc](/web/image/product.product/8371/image_1024/%5B1871%5D%20Ch%C3%A2teau%20Tour%20des%20Termes%20-%20Explore%202024%20%5BMerlot%5D%20-%20Haut-M%C3%A9doc?unique=83df5aa)
The Producer
Located in the heart of the Saint-Estèphe appellation, Château Tour des Termes has its origins in the Middle Ages, when a watchtower overlooked the estuary of the Gironde and marked the territorial boundaries ("termes"). The estate has since been structured over the centuries, before being sustainably developed by the Anney family, who have owned it for more than five generations. This long family history has shaped the identity of the estate, which has become a regular reference among the bourgeois crus of the Médoc.
The vineyard rests on the great terroirs of Bordeaux, blending deep gravel and clay, characteristic of Saint-Estèphe. Cabernet Sauvignon structures the blends, complemented by Merlot, as well as Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. This diversity of soils and grape varieties allows for the production of powerful, straight wines that are built for aging, while maintaining a certain freshness typical of the appellation.
Since 2023, the estate has experienced a true renaissance with its acquisition by the O’Connor family, initially led by Irish entrepreneur Eddie O’Connor. This acquisition marks a strategic turning point, with a clear intention to combine Bordeaux heritage with a contemporary vision of wine. The transition has been smooth, maintaining the existing team, particularly around Julien Brustis, who is tasked with driving a new qualitative and stylistic dynamic. The project is clearly aligned with a sustainable and forward-looking approach, with significant investments (eco-responsible winery, new plantings, diversification of cuvées) and an ambition to adapt the vineyard to climate challenges.
Today, Château Tour des Termes embodies a property in full evolution: true to its identity as a structured and classic Saint-Estèphe, but driven by a new energy aimed at modernizing its style, expanding its range, and appealing to a new generation of enthusiasts.
The Wine
GRAPE VARIETY: Merlot
FERMENTATION: Indigenous yeasts selected from the vineyard
ALCOHOL: 12.23% vol
pH: 3.28
AGING: 8 months in 500 L barrels & tanks
Reused bottle, recycled paper
Tasting
Deep color with ruby reflections. Raspberry, pomegranate highlighted by delicate floral notes, peony and violet. The palate is seduced by its silky texture, supported by a fluid and harmonious structure. The finely crafted tannins envelop the fruit without ever dominating it. An impression of purity runs through the whole: the brightness of the fruit, the precision of the touch, the freshness of the limestone terroir. The finish, airy and persistent, leaves a trail of dried rose and morello cherry. A luminous Merlot, full of grace and energy.