Planquette 2022

Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
Country: France
Region: Bordeaux (Saint-Yzans-de-Médoc)
Farming: Organic (no additions, no fining or filtration)

Planquette has always been about making Bordeaux with honesty and purity. Founded in 1978 by Didier Michaud, who was a pioneer of organics in the Médoc, the estate has never wavered from a simple philosophy: grow healthy fruit, intervene as little as possible, and let the land speak. Today, that vision continues under the thoughtful hands of Blandine (formerly vineyard manager at Pauillac’s Château Pichon Comtesse) and her partner Jérémy (of Château Peylaby), who carry Didier’s work forward with the same quiet dedication.

The 2022 comes from three parcels just outside Saint-Yzans, on clay, limestone, and gravel soils a short walk from the Gironde. Fermentation and long maceration take place in fibreglass, followed by ageing in oak (with a small portion in amphora) for just over a year — without racking, fining, filtration, or additions.

The result is a Médoc of striking vitality: dark fruits, savoury spice, and a stony freshness, wrapped in supple tannins. A wine that feels both traditional and quietly radical — classic Bordeaux, but freer, more alive.