
The Gravas Estate
Chateau Gravas was founded in 1789 and has been in the Bernard family for five generations. It is currently owned by Michel and Florence Bernard.
The name "Gravas" comes from "graves", a gravelly soil that perfectly suits the production of Sauternes wines.
The estate is superbly located in Barsac between Chateau Coutet, Chateau Climens and Chateau Doisy-Daene. The total production is 2,000 cases/year.
The Gravas Vineyard
There are 8 hectares (19.8 acres) of vineyard for the production of Sauternes. The soil is a mix of clay, sand and limestone. The 60 year-old vines are harvested by hand: the grapes are picked in successive passes. The wine is aged in both French and American oak barrels. There are 5 villages in Sauternes: Preignac, Barsac, Fargues, Beaumes and Sauternes.
No products found
Ruby red with soft purplish reflections. Rich and complex on the nose, very reminiscent of small fruits of brambles, black cherry and a very delicate hint of softwood. On the palate it is decisive, complex and extraordinarily persistent.
Review:
Complex aromas of ripe fruit, toffee, cedar and smoke. Medium body, round and creamy tannins and a fresh, juicy finish.
-James Suckling 94 Points
Hyde de Villaine Napa Valley Hyde Vineyard Belle Cousine is made from 85% Cabernet Sauvignon & 15% Merlot.
The name Belle Cousine is a reference to Pamela Fairbanks de Villaine, Larry Hyde’s lovely cousin, who is the wife of Aubert de Villaine of Burgundy. It is Pamela who brings these visionary viticultural families from Burgundy and the Carneros region of Napa Valley together to make wines that express the character of place, with that rare minerality so dear to the Burgundian palate. Belle Cousine is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon that varies each vintage; Merlot from Niebaum selections and Cabernet from Bordeaux-origin selections.
The vineyard is certified Napa Green Land and Fish Friendly Farming and Larry Hyde uses a variety of biodynamic and organic practices in the vineyard; the wines are unfined and unfiltered.
Review:
"The balance of fruit purity and savory nuances is divine. Aromas of black currants, licorice, dried herbs and leather. The palate is mid-weighted with a pure, refined mouthfeel and firmly framed yet fine tannins. A well-crafted blend of 85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% merlot that shows great harmony."
-James Suckling 96 Points