▻ Assemblage

What this episode covers

Assemblage is the French word for the operation in the production of fine wine of deciding which lots will be assembled in the final blend. The decision taken by the winemaker of which lots go into the grand vin, which lots go into the second wine or are sold off in bulk is crucial not only to the quality of the wine, but also the finances of the chateau. In this episode Sarah Kemp speaks to three of Bordeaux’s most prominent producers on how they approach the assemblage. Do they have an ideal blend in mind? What are they looking for when they taste each lot? If the wine is to be drunk in over a decade time what qualities are they looking for to ensure it lasts? Lilian Barton Sartorius of Ch Leoville Barton, Hervé Berland of Ch Montrose and Eric Kohler of Ch Lafite discuss the secrets of blending some of the world’s greatest wines.

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