History
This is Louis Mitjavile’s own property, an excellent site in upcoming Castillon, Côtes de Bordeaux, neighbour to Saint-Emilion
Louis Mitjavile, known as Loulou, is François Mitjavile’s son. He is the winemaker of L’Aurage, which he owns with his wife Caroline.
The vineyards of Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux lie on an outcrop of the Saint-Émilion limestone ridge and represent some of the best value in Bordeaux.
This is a beautiful enclave of wooded hillsides. The plantings are 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, although the percentage of Cabernet Franc is diminishing, as all Louis’ replantings are now Merlot. The oldest vines are 17 years old.
Loulou places great importance on “couture-like” winter and early-spring vineyard work. Loulou recently installed new temperature regulation in the cellars, which maintains a minimum 15-16ºC.
He has found that this enables him to achieve roundness and richness more easily in his wines. L’Aurage spends 18-20 months in oak, which is 100% new, from the Radoux cooperage.
The Vineyards
The property is 20 hectares in size, with, very helpfully, 18ha of vines in one block. The vine density is 6500 vines per hectare, with an average age of 20 years, planted 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. This estate is within the highest area of St Genès de Castillon, adjoining Saint-Emilion, and the region has enjoyed a fine reputation for many years.
This is, in so many ways, a dream property; a wonderful site which includes a very traditional, typical Arcachonesque villa
