Château Petrus

We are all familiar with the name Château Petrus as one of the world’s most sought-after wines.

Château Petrus is usually made from Merlot grapes, but—depending on the vintage—is occasionally produced from Cabernet Franc. These grapes come from a Bordeaux vineyard enjoying the Pomerol appellation, although it is also close to the Saint-Emilion region. The vineyard is situated on the top of a plateau and is approximately 28 acres in size. Its unique clay soil is rich in minerals and iron. Any excess water on the plateau trickles through a French drain to irrigate the vines on the slopes of the hill. Château Petrus was among the first to practice green harvest, a method that allows the grower to control the yield and improve the flavors of the remaining clusters. The vineyard was first planted in the 1880s. It is currently owned by the Moueix family, well-known Bordeaux wine merchants, who have been associated with this vineyard since the end of the Second World War.

What makes this wine so special is limited availability. No more than 2,500 cases are produced each year. And the vast majority is squirrelled away in cellars, to acquire dust and value. Demand is further driven by top restaurants, catering to guests with deep pockets. A bottle of this tasty treat can be yours for the princely sum of $3,495 Canadian.

It sure makes our County wine look affordable…

THIS WEEK’S PICK
Vida Zalnieriunas and Richard Johnson of By Chadsey’s Cairns Winery have just released a special rosé in honour of Prince Edward’s long-time mistress, Julie de St. Laurent. Their 27-year love affair flourished in Prince Edward County but ended sadly when King George III insisted on an heir to throne. Prince Edward later married Princess Victoria.

The 2010 Mme. St. Laurent Rosé ($23) is 100 per cent estate-grown St. Laurent and Chardonnay grapes, lightly oaked. The hue is a romantic Baroque red (appropriate) with earthy, strawberry cotton candy aromas. The flavours of strawberry jam, candy stripe beets, pink peppercorns and fresh red currant acidity make this a great food wine or aperitif.

By Chadsey’s Cairns is located at 17432 Loyalist Parkway, 5 km west of Wellington.