2017 Château Tour Saint Christophe

Château Tour Saint Christophe stands in Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes, on the eastern side of Saint-Émilion. Its vineyard descends across narrow terraces overlooking the Saint-Laurent valley, a distinctive landscape supported by old dry-stone walls and planted on clay-limestone soils.

The terraces are not decorative. They stabilise the hillside, control erosion and create a series of small growing environments with excellent drainage and exposure. Clay provides body and water retention, while limestone brings freshness, fine tannins and the mineral tension that gives the wine its long, structured finish.

Peter Kwok acquired the property in 2012 and began restoring its historic terraces, including approximately 1.5 kilometres of dry-stone walls. The 2017 is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Harvest ran from 3 to 17 October, and the wine matured for 15 months in 40% new barrels, 40% second passage barrels and 20% third passage barrels.

In the glass, the wine shows cassis, black cherry and raspberry, followed by violet, spice, cocoa and crushed limestone. The palate is ripe and textured, but its juicy acidity and chalky tannins keep the fruit focused and extend the finish.

Roast beef, lamb cutlets, slow-cooked beef cheek, duck cassoulet or other delicate preparations, cheese platters

Serve: 16–18 °C
Drink: 2025–2040