Feytit-Clinet, Chateau
Summary
Chateau Feytit-Clinet is a small family-owned estate in Pomerol spanning 6-7 hectares of clay and iron-rich soils, producing a single wine from predominantly Merlot vines under the leadership of Jeremy Chasseuil. The estate's meticulous approach to winemaking, including hand harvesting and extended oak aging, has quietly transformed this once-overlooked property into a producer of exceptional wines that rival more famous neighbors while maintaining relative anonymity among mainstream wine consumers.
Heritage & Leadership
Chateau Feytit-Clinet is a wine estate located in the prestigious Pomerol appellation on the Right Bank of Bordeaux, France. The property has been in existence since at least the mid-20th century, though its earlier history is less documented. The Chasseuil family has owned the estate for several generations, establishing a tradition of family stewardship that continues today.
A significant turning point for Chateau Feytit-Clinet came in the early 2000s when Jeremy Chasseuil assumed management of the property. Under his direction, the estate has experienced a period of quality advancement, gaining increased recognition in fine wine circles. This transition marked the beginning of a new chapter for the chateau, as Jeremy Chasseuil implemented changes that would enhance the estate's standing among Pomerol producers.
Vineyards & Wines
Chateau Feytit-Clinet encompasses approximately 6-7 hectares of vineyards situated on the Pomerol plateau. The vineyard soils feature a composition characteristic of quality Pomerol terroir: a mixture of clay, gravel, and iron-rich deposits known locally as "crasse de fer." This soil structure provides excellent drainage while retaining sufficient moisture for the vines during dry periods.
The vineyard is planted at high density following traditional Bordeaux practices, with approximately 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. This varietal composition reflects the classic Pomerol preference for Merlot-dominant blends, which thrive in the appellation's terroir.
The estate produces a single red wine, Chateau Feytit-Clinet, with an annual production of approximately 2,000-2,500 cases. This limited output allows for focused attention on quality throughout the production process.
Philosophy & Practice
The winemaking approach at Chateau Feytit-Clinet combines traditional methods with modern techniques. Harvesting is conducted by hand, allowing for careful selection of fruit at optimal ripeness. After harvest, the grapes undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks, enabling precise management of the extraction process.
Following fermentation, the wine matures in French oak barrels for approximately 16-18 months, with 70-80% new oak used in the aging process. This careful barrel regimen contributes structure and complexity to the final wine while respecting the fruit character derived from the Pomerol terroir.
Unlike the classified growths of the Médoc, Chateau Feytit-Clinet, like all Pomerol estates, operates outside the 1855 Classification system. Since the mid-2000s, coinciding with Jeremy Chasseuil's leadership, the wines have garnered increasing critical acclaim, establishing the chateau as a producer of high-quality Pomerol.