Aurora Chateau Aurora 2017
Fun Fact: Chateau Aurora is the first wine ever produced at the winery, meaning these vines are the oldest and date back to 2003.
Grape Varietals & Region: Aurora Chateau Aurora a joyous marriage of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot. The fruit comes from vineyards planted on terraces at 850 metres altitude in the village Auora on the mountains of North Batroun, Lebanon. The vineyards use eco-friendly farming techniques (dry farming, organic cattle fertilisers) and have typically clay and limestone soils. The terroir experience moderate four seasons that offer adequate rainfall to the vines, and the terraces help to retain rainwater and avoid landslides on this mountainous vineyard. Grape clusters are controlled to carry limited yields per vine to provide optimal juice concentration.
Taste Profile: Dense purple colour. Vivid aromas of blackberries, blueberries and plums along with hints of mocha, vanilla and cocoa powder. The medium to full-bodied palate shows velvety tannins and complexity with cassis flavours complemented by notes of mint on the long finish.
Winemaking Process: Careful handpicking of the fruit in the beginning of September usually at dawn and dusk to make sure the grapes are cool upon arrival at the winery. De-stemming and fermentation at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks until initial fermentation is complete. The wine ages for 12 months in French oak barrels (30% new) and a small portion of American oak barrels.