Château Penin is a historic family estate in Entre-Deux-Mers, founded in 1855 and now run by fifth-generation winemaker Patrick Carteyron. Since taking over in 1982, Patrick has focused the estate entirely on viticulture, expanding the vineyards to 50 hectares and crafting wines that reflect the character of each plot. In 2011, he added to the family’s legacy with the purchase of Château La Fleur Penin, a small 2.5-hectare Grand Cru vineyard in Saint-Émilion.

The estate is committed to sustainable farming, with certification under the High Environmental Value (HVE) program. This approach protects the soil, water and local biodiversity, while also promoting fair, healthy working conditions for the team. Each wine is carefully made using grape varieties and vineyard practices best suited to the unique features of each site.

This 100% Merlot comes from a rare two-hectare plot in Saint-Émilion, where rolled pebbles from ancient glaciers sit on a layer of clay. These soils help the grapes ripen fully while controlling water supply, resulting in concentrated and balanced fruit. The grapes are picked by hand, gently fermented with low-pressure pump-overs, then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels—half of that on fine lees—followed by 18 months in concrete vats to bring added depth and harmony.

The wine is rich and expressive, with aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, cedar, vanilla and cinnamon, lifted by a touch of wet stone. On the palate, it’s smooth and full, with ripe tannins and flavours of dark chocolate, plum, liquorice and toasted spice. The finish is long and layered, showing notes of slate, anise and pencil lead that add minerality and complexity.

Both plush and refined, this Merlot pairs beautifully with game, roast meats, and bold, flavourful dishes. While it’s delicious now, it also has the structure and freshness to age gracefully for 10 to 20 years.