Château Vray Croix de Gay
Billed on its website as ‘the most affordable of the great Pomerols’ – and it’s hard to disagree. This 4ha property includes a plot of vines near Château Trotanoy and another near Château Lafleur, combining heat-retaining gravel and clay. Former Petrus director Jean-Claude Berrouet has consulted here since 2014; in the same year oenologist Pénélope Godefroy arrived from Château Latour in Pauillac. She is converting the estate to biodynamic viticulture and since 2015 has used preparations such as horsetail, nettle and camomile to help fight fungal diseases. ‘Biodynamic work really helps the vine to balance itself in various climatic and physiological conditions,’ she explains. Since 2014, extractions have been softer, leading to greater elegance and precision. Prices are increasing, but it still represents excellent value.
Château Vray Croix de Gay 2015 94
£42.83 (ib)-£60 Corkr, Fine & Rare, Millésima A supple blend of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc that is deceptively soft. The velvety texture of the rounded palate gives immediate pleasure. There’s a charming floral aspect that combines violets and white spring flowers. Fine notes of new leather as well as bright fruit. Wonderful!
Drink 2018-2040 Alc 14.5%
Château Vray Croix de Gay 2005 91
£ 29.17-£ 35.45 (ib) Lay & Wheeler, Wine Owners Exchange While the 2015 really impressed, this vintage is not as balanced. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, it’s also less dense and opulent, though it does show fruit-driven expression. Vray Croix de Gay is a fine example of a Pomerol that has improved over the last 10 years. Drink 2018-2024 Alc 13.5% D
Panos Kakaviatos is a journalist, wine writer, educator and judge. He is also the publisher of www.wine-chronicles.com