Description
This Château La Croizille presents itself in the glass with a deep inky ruby red color and an intense, complex bouquet. The aroma opens with ripe black fruits — think cassis, plum, and blackberries — subtly intertwined with spicy notes and light toast from the oak aging. On the palate, the wine shows a rich structure with full body, supported by ripe yet refined tannins and a beautiful balance between fruit, elegance, and finely integrated oak. The wine has excellent depth and length, with a velvety mouthfeel and a harmonious finish that invites further evolution in the bottle.
4.2/5 on Vivino
Serving Suggestions:
• Grilled red meats
• Rack of lamb or entrecôte
• Mushroom risotto / truffle dishes
• Aged cheeses
Serve at 18°C.
Cellaring:
This wine is currently drinkable but still has excellent aging potential (around 25 years depending on the vintage), making it perfect for immediate enjoyment or further cellaring.
Extra Information:
This Saint-Émilion Grand Cru is made from a classic Bordeaux blend: approximately 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes come from limestone-rich and clay-marl soils, typical for the region around Saint-Laurent-des-Combes. After traditional controlled fermentation, the wine ages 15+ months in French oak barrels, contributing to its complexity and structure.
Château La Croizille has been owned since 1996 by the Belgian De Schepper family, a family with a long history in the wine world. They began producing liqueurs and spirits in Belgium in 1938 and later expanded into Bordeaux wines. Their first Bordeaux estate was acquired in 1950 with Château Tour Baladoz, later expanding their portfolio to include Château La Croizille in Saint-Laurent-des-Combes.
The family aims to combine respect for the terroir with modern technology and traditional viticulture, resulting in characterful and expressive wines. Château La Croizille is part of several Bordeaux estates under their management, alongside other properties in Saint-Émilion and Margaux.
???????? Technical Director & Winemaker: Jean‑Michel Garcion
Daily production is managed by Jean‑Michel Garcion, who has worked closely with the De Schepper family for many years. As technical director and head oenologist, he oversees vinification and wine preparation, focusing on careful grape selection, modern vinification techniques, and optimal expression of the terroir. Under his leadership, the estate has been strengthened and modernized, contributing to its Grand Cru classification starting with the 2022 vintage.
???? Communications & Oenology: Hélène De Schepper
Hélène De Schepper, a family member, plays an important role in communications, wine promotion, and wine tourism at the estate. She is closely involved in organizing tastings, events, and presenting the winery to an international audience. Under her guidance, Château La Croizille has built a growing reputation among trade and consumers.
Les Vins de Saint-Émilion
???? Vision & Innovation
Since acquisition, the family has invested in:
- Restructuring of the vineyards
- Construction of a modern wine cellar (2012–2013) with panoramic views over the vineyards
- Viticulture and vinification with modern facilities, combined with traditional methods
- Focus on wine and tourism experiences, earning Château La Croizille the International Best of Wine Tourism Award in 2015
Recognition:
- Falstaff: 92/100 for 2016
- James Suckling: 93/100 for 2016