Tasting Notes
L'Hetre is a Merlot-led blend with a good splash of Cabernet Franc from Bordeaux's Côtes de Castillon, made by the seriously talented team of Jacques Thienpont and Fiona Morrison MW. It's aromatic and floral on the nose, then builds in the mouth in layers, all blackcurrant, raspberry and dark red cherry with a lift of blood orange and a warm touch of cinnamon. Crisp and mineral but comforting with it, and those beautifully detailed tannins sing right through the finish. Lovely now, though a year or two in the cellar will reward you. - Aaron C
L’Hêtre is the Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux estate of Jacques Thienpont and his sister Anne, part of the family behind some of the great names of Bordeaux’s Right Bank, including Le Pin in Pomerol and L’If in Saint-Émilion. They acquired the property in 2015 after being drawn to its position on the limestone plateau that continues east from Saint-Émilion.
Today the estate covers 27 hectares, planted to around 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc across a mix of deep clay and limestone soils, with the vineyards certified organic. The approach follows the same focus on site and precision found at the family’s more famous estates, but in the less celebrated appellation of Castillon. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled concrete vats, followed by elevage in French oak.
The wines have the generosity and depth you expect from Merlot on the Right Bank, but the limestone brings freshness, structure and a distinctly mineral edge. It’s serious Bordeaux with impressive pedigree, without the price tag attached to the more famous appellations next door.
| Product Type | Wine Red Blends |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Sub Region | Cotes de Bordeaux |
| Winemaking Practices | Conventional |
| Vineyard Practices | Organic/Biodynamic |