Chateau Hourbanon Estate
The vineyard Hourbanon appears in the 6th edition of Bordeaux and Its Wines, Editions Feret (the bible of Bordeaux wines), classified under the headings of Crus Artisans and Farmers in 1893. At that time the vineyard belonged to the Drouillet family, one member of whom was mayor of Lesparre.
In 1898, according to the 7th edition of Bordeaux and Its Wines, the vineyard became Cru Bourgeois, still belonging to the same family and producing 35 tons, or 31,500 liter, equivalent to 42,000 bottles
At that time, the operation is called Cru-Hourbanon, since at that time the Chateau La Cardonne was a neighbor located on the same road, 1km away. Unfortunately, the hardships of operating in the decades that followed is not known. It seems that the vineyard has had ups and downs with the same period of abandonment.
After their return from Algeria, the Montgaillard family acquired the vineyard. The Family Montgaillard operated this small area shared between the vineyards and some cows. They sold grapes to the cooperative, and the brand at that time fell into disuse somewhat.
In 1974 Rémi Delayat, the current owner’s father, acquired this vineyard. It was in pretty bad shape. This dentist from Yvelines, originally from Bresse and passionate about wine decided to restore the credentials in the vineyard of Hourbanon. Remi constructed a modern winery, and rehabilitated the old wine cellar for storing and aging wine bottles. He also renovated the farmhouse. All of this renovation work lasted several years, which his wife Nicole Delayat continued after the premature death of Remi in 1981.
Hugues, their son, took over in 1997. Having bathed in the passion of wine since childhood, he faces this trade directly in contrast to his parents. But certain constants have transcended generations : a passion for wine, respect for the land, and taste for wines of the Médoc.
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REVIEW
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Snake Oil needs a little swirling to reveal emerging notes of freshly crushed blackcurrants, blackberry pie and mulberries plus suggestions of tilled soil, cedar chest and Indian spices with a touch of roses. The full-bodied palate completely coats the mouth with opulent black fruit preserves and exotic spice layers, supported by velvety tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and perfumed.
-Wine Advocate 93+ Points
The 2018 Priest Ranch Snake Oil is all Cabernet Sauvignon, from a trio of hillside vineyards on the Somerston Estate. It has beautiful blueberry and plum fruits as well as notes of sappy herbs, violets, and bouquet garni. More medium-bodied, focused, and elegant, it shines for its purity, freshness, and length. It’s a classic 2018 that will have 15+ years of longevity.
-Jeb Dunnuck 93 Points
Our 2018 Snake Oil was handpicked, sorted, and fermented naturally, then aged for 24 months in 75% new French oak barrels and 25% once-used French oak barrels.
HARVEST NOTES
The early half of 2018 brought us moderate temperature allowing for a long growing season. We had a majority of our rainfall in February followed by a mild Spring. Then summer brought consistent temperatures with little heat spikes. This weather allowed for longer hang time and for the fruit to ripen at a slower rate. The 2018 harvest at our estate began in late August and resulted in exceptional quality.
Cabrieres Le Petit Cabrieres is made from 90% Grenache and 10% Cinsault.
Le Petit Cabrieres Rouge is a Vin de Pays du Vaucluse as it is made from grapes grown right outside the Cotes du Rhone geographic designation.
Intense red color with purple highlights. Powerful nose of red fruits. Fruity on the palate with a beautiful freshness.
Pair with charcuterie, hamburgers and cheeses.