ALTER EGO DE PALMER 2017
General Charles Palmer bought this estate in 1814 after having stumbled across the region whilst making his way back home after the Battle of Toulouse. The general moved into high society and successfully marketed his wine in London. The current owners are the Sichel family and the Mahler-Besse negociant company. The vineyards are renowned for their high percentage of Merlot plantations (47%); contrary to popular theory that you plant your best gravel ridges with Cabernet Sauvignon. It is this high percentage of Merlot that gives the wines such an attractive texture and such an exotic character.
The estate's second wine, Alter Ego (formerly Réserve de Général) is also excellent.
The Palmer team cultivates biodynamically and has chosen to incorporate 13.5% of press wine in the final blend. The 2017 vintage is composed of 53% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot.