Château Hoclet was established in 1936 by Fernand Hoclet after falling in love with the three-hectare estate during his decade-long tenure as the property's sharecropper. Today, fourth-generation winemaker Xavier Hoclet — Fernand's great-grandson — farms the estate's 21 hectare vineyards which overlook the commune of Saint Ciers de Canesse. Xavier took the reins of Château Hoclet in 2013 after completing his studies in Dijon, receiving a BTS and degree in vine science. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon vine averaging over 25 years of age are grown in soils of clay and limestone interspersed with Eocene gravel. The estate produces two sensational wines which wonderfully reflect the decades of familial knowledge and tradition, as well as the fabulous terroir of the Côtes de Bourg.

The Château Hoclet is composed of a 75/25 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from a sloped plot with perfect southern exposure. The wine pours a deep ruby red in the glass emitting soaring aromas of fresh red berry and stone fruits tinged with light notes of spice and sandalwood. The palate is ample and full with flavors of macerated black cherries and freshly-picked rasp- and blackberries. These luscious fruits are supported by a delicate acidity and smooth, polished tannins which help guide this succulent red to a long, complex finish. The Château Hoclet is extremely food-friendly... Try with hard, aged cheeses, a range of wild game or roasted duck or pork.