The history of Château de Camensac dates back to the 16th century, when the Médoc region was drained by order of King Henry IV, allowing the land to develop into a suitable terroir for viticulture. By 1701, a house and vineyards already stood on the site of Camensac, and in 1799, after the turmoil of the French Revolution, the estate was purchased by the Popp family, who played a key role in its development and in its recognition in the 1855 Grand Cru classification. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, various owners modernized the estate, expanded production, and restored the vineyards, especially during the renewal period of the 1960s. In 2005, the estate was acquired by the Merlaut family, who strengthened its international reputation, and in 2021 Château de Camensac confirmed its environmental commitment by obtaining HEV level 3 certification. Today, the estate combines deep historical roots, innovation, and a long‑term vision passed down through generations.

La Closerie de Camensac is the second wine of Château de Camensac, created in the 1970s tradition of offering the style of a great estate at a more accessible price and with the possibility of enjoying it at a younger age. It is made from carefully selected batches of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grown on 86 hectares of deep gravel soils, giving the wine ripe fruit, soft tannins, and elegant balance.

VINTAGE 2020

Harvest:
Merlot: 10–15 September
Cabernet Sauvignon: 18–25 October
Rain begins in September and ends in December. An unusually mild winter lasts from January to late February. The first COVID lockdown takes place under bright sunshine and high temperatures. From mid‑April, heavy and frequent rains disrupt vineyard work. June is humid, and mildew threatens again. A superb summer stops its progression, but late August and early September become too hot. Cool subsoils save the Cabernet Sauvignon. During harvest, the sky is grey, but rainfall is rare.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand‑harvested, sorted in the vineyard and again on a sorting table. Classic vinification follows: fermentation, maceration, and 12 months of ageing in French oak (10% new). The estate practices sustainable agriculture.

Tasting notes

Appearance: clear and bright Colour: garnet with violet reflections First nose: menthol freshness, black cherry, light pepper After swirling: liquorice and blackcurrant Palate: clean attack, broad and full mid‑palate Finish: long, with liquorice notes
A very enjoyable wine with structure and freshness. Young Closerie is dense and vibrant, developing beautiful complexity over time.

Food pairings

Pairs well with meat, poultry, and cheese.

Wait 3–5 years before tasting. Keep for up to 15 years.