Château Hannetot - Pessac-Léognan Red 2019
In Léognan, Château Hannetot is a small family estate in Pessac-Léognan whose winemaking history dates back to the 18th century. The estate, taken over by the Beaumartin family in 2006, covers about four hectares, a modest size that allows careful management of the different plots. Its terroir combines clay, gravel, and limestone components, a diversity of soils that contributes both to the ripeness of the fruit and the maintenance of a fresh framework. Xavier Beaumartin manages the estate, while the oenological supervision has been ensured since 2010 by Serge Charritte. The vineyard mainly produces reds in the classic style of Pessac-Léognan, with an important place given to Merlot and the Cabernets. The 2019 vintage benefited in Bordeaux from generous ripeness, producing here a wine that is both accessible, structured, and carried by well-defined fruit. This relatively confidential production offers an interesting interpretation of the appellation, far from the most publicized estates.
The 2019 is a Bordeaux blend dominated by Merlot and complemented by the Cabernets; available sources do not allow establishing the exact proportions of the vintage with sufficient certainty. Merlot brings the wine its flesh, fruity character, and an immediately welcoming texture, while the Cabernets provide more structure and freshness. Published tastings of this vintage highlight a profile of red and black fruits, with a medium to full body and a tannic framework already well integrated. The oak aging brings a spicy and slightly licorice register without dominating the expression of the fruit. The structure retains enough tension to provide length and accompany a few additional years in the bottle. Over time, the woody notes begin to integrate with blackcurrant, blackberry, and the smokier nuances characteristic of Graves reds. The 2019 is currently at a stage where its initial accessibility begins to enrich with a more evolved complexity.
The color shows a deep garnet with still present ruby reflections. The nose opens on blackberry, black cherry, and blackcurrant, accompanied by hints of violet, licorice, and spices. With aeration, notes of cedar, tobacco, graphite, and a discreet smoky touch gradually appear, recalling the identity of Pessac-Léognan. The palate is supple on the attack, then gains structure thanks to fine and already well-integrated tannins. The fruit remains clear and generous, supported by freshness that avoids any heaviness. The finish, straight and spicy, extends the black fruits, licorice, and a slight woody nuance. Château Hannetot 2019 will accompany duck breast, grilled rib steak, rack of lamb, roasted veal with mushrooms, or seasonal cuisine around porcini mushrooms.
Grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
