Château Chatain Pineau

Monsieur René Micheau-Maillou, who is also co-owner of the excellent Domaine de la Vieille Église, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru A.O.C., in Saint-Hippolyte, also exercises his talent at Château Châtain Pineau in Néac.
Formerly part of Château Châtain, the vineyard was detached from it at the beginning of the century. In 1933, the Micheau-Maillou family became tenants of it and then owners in 1987.
The vineyard consists of 5.5 hectares in a single block on the rise, with a clay-loam soil, classically planted. Vinification is conducted wisely: the length of maceration depends on multiple tastings, and pumping-overs are daily for a minimum of two weeks. The same concern for balance applies to ageing in vats and barrels, 1/5 of which are renewed each year. No filtration takes place: the only clarification is fining with egg white.
All this meticulous, almost paternal care produces a wine of strong personality and great appeal.