Puisseguin Saint-Emilion
Vineyard
Sustainable winemaking is at the heart of Château Teillac. We employ both modern vinification equipment and traditional French oak barriques. We pay special attention to the soil to protect the vines optimally and allow the beautiful Merlot grapes to flourish. Additionally, we carefully monitor to ensure the delicate ecosystem and unique habitat of the estate are preserved.
EXTRA CARE FOR THE UNIQUE ECOSYSTEM
THE TERROIR
Our wines owe their color, flavor, and body in part to the geological variety of clay, gravel, sand, and limestone soils found in this area. Our vineyard is situated on a plateau of hard limestone originating from the Oligocene period, locally known as ‘Calcaire à Astéries.’ This is the exact same foundation found in the most prestigious estates of Saint-Emilion, such as Ausone, Pavie, Belair, Clos Fourtet, Beauséjour-Bécot, Troittevieille, and Canon. Our soil is of such high quality that the grapes can ripen optimally and in balance, resulting in the production of the finest wines. Combined with a moderate continental microclimate highly suitable for viticulture, voilà: a foundation for some of the world’s best wines.
THE CLIMATE
The climate in Bordeaux is moderate and relatively humid, with an average annual temperature of 13.8 degrees Celsius and average rainfall of 950 mm per year. Compared to the appellations of Saint-Emilion and Pomerol, the location of our appellation Puisseguin Saint-Emilion is slightly cooler due to its higher elevation. The maximum temperature is relatively low, and the minimum temperature is relatively high. This positioning makes Château Teillac less susceptible to frost damage.
GRAPE VARIETY
Our wines are crafted from 100% Merlot grapes. The vines, with an average age of 30 years, yield highly concentrated grapes with aromas of red and black fruits, such as blackberries and cherries. Each plot is harvested separately, precisely when the grapes are perfectly ripe.
THE PROCESS
It all begins with the careful selection of the finest grapes, cultivated and cherished with love. The grapes are harvested at the right moment, when they have reached optimal ripeness. Once in the winery, the grapes are meticulously crushed before being gently transferred to fermentation vessels.
Here is where the transformation begins. Yeasts, naturally present on the grape skins, mingle with the juice and initiate the fermentation process. It’s a dance of microorganisms converting sugars into alcohol, imparting the wine with its distinctive flavor and character.
Patience becomes an essential companion in this process. The wine rests, often for months, as flavors evolve and harmonize. When the wine has reached its full potential, it’s time for bottling.
Each bottle is filled with care. Labels are meticulously applied, each bearing a story and a promise of quality. And so, after months of dedication and craftsmanship, the wine is ready to enchant the world.
Winemaking is a craftwork of art, a tribute to nature, and a celebration of the senses. It’s an invitation to enjoy, raise a toast, and share in this timeless tradition.
