90% Merlot

8% Cabernet Sauvignon

2% Petit Verdot

Vineyard surface : 66 Ha (10 Ha of which are white)

Soils : Clay silts, calcareous clay and gravel outcrops.

Vine density : 6 500 plant/Ha

Pruning : Guyot mixte

Vine management : plot by plot

Sustainable viticulture

Higher trellising to increase the canopy.

Soils work adapted to the characteristics of each plot.

Multiple tasks in the vineyard: de-budding, removing the secondary shoots, removing the secondary shoots, 2 leaf-thinnings depending on the plot; crop-thinnings if necessary

Manual leaf-thinings; Crop-thinning to eliminate uneven bunches

Harvest: By grape variety and type of soils, when the grapes are perfectly ripe.

Vinification:  In temperature-controlled stainless steel vats.

Ageing: 12 months in new oak barrels, on fine lees.

Lovely bright garnet in appearance. On the nose, fruit character instantly defines this wine, delivering intense aromas of red berry fruits and cherries. This fresh and fruity profile is mirrored on the palate, underpinned by a generous, smooth structure and well-integrated oak. This delicious, full-flavoured impression lingers appealingly on the finish. Frédéric Bonnaffous, Dourthe Estates Director

Blackberry and blueberry aromas with a hint of licorice. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a lovely finish. Shows some hot-stone and fresh-herb undertones to the currant flavors. Drink or hold. 91 Points, February 2019

Deeply colored, the 2016 Château de Ricaud is one seriously classy Côtes de Bordeaux. Giving up plenty of spiced cherries, mulberries, and currant fruit, it has subtle spicy oak, medium body, terrific balance, and a rare sense of elegance from this region. It should drink nicely for upwards of a decade. 90 Points, February 2019

Red and white meat (entrecôte bordelaise, minute steak, beef tartare, neck of lamb, leg of mutton, duck magret), vegetables and side dishes (gratin dauphinois), cheese (Mimolette, Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan).