93 Points Robert Parker From the Limoux region, Domain de Baron'Arques, owned by Chateau Mouton Rothschild, is produced from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Malbec. From a supple and velvety attack, the beautifully fresh mid-palate reveals refined and elegant tannin associated with an impression of density and fullness. Notes of toast, cocoa, vanilla and cedar wood combine with wild berry fruit flavors on the long and succulent finish.
Baron Philippe de Rothschild
LIMOUX-LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON AOC
Domaine de Baron'Arques is a single 254-acre estate, 118 acres of which are planted with vines.
It is located in the commune of Saint-Polycarpe, in the Haute-Vallée terroir (the upper Aude valley, the highest and coolest part of the Limoux region) at the cross-roads between the warm and dry Mediterranean terroir and the warm and damp Autan terroir.
It therefore benefits from the influence of all three Limoux terroirs, a considerable advantage for the complexity of its wine.
The grapes are harvested by hand in 12-kilo open baskets, as at Mouton Rothschild.
Because sorting takes place at a higher level than the vinification vats, the grapes can be fed into the vats by gravity, a process which helps to keep the fruit whole.
The grapes are gently destemmed and lightly crushed, then fermented in stainless steel vats. Alcoholic fermentation last 8 days at a temperature of approximately 30ºC.
It is followed by a maceration period of 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the wines and the varieties.
After malolactique fermentation, the wine is matured for 12 months in new barrels (30 to 50% depending on the vintage) and one and two year old barrels.
The wine is bottled at the estate.
Name of the Owner: Baronne Philippine de Rothschild
Surface of the Vineyard: 100 Hectares
Type of Grapes: 51% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 6% Malbec, 14% Syrah.
Ground: Clay and Limestone
Aging: 12 months in french oak barrels. (50% new)
Average Age of the Vine: 10 years
