Location: Chateau Cantemerle, in the commune of Macau, is the second major chateau that one passes heading north on Bordeaux's Route du Vin. (Appellation Haut-Medoc Controlée) 50 acres producing 8,000 cases.

Classification: Fifth growth

Grape variety: 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot. Average age of vines is 25 years.

Vinification and aging: Fermented in new vats for 18 to 20 days. Matured in oak barrels, renewed yearly by thirds. Clarified with egg whites. Stored in wood between 20 and 22 months.

History: This estate belonged to the powerful lords of Blanquefort in the 14th century, before being purchased in 1579 by Baron Jehan de Villeneuve. Three centuries later, his descendants sold it to the Dubois family. In 1980, Chateau Cantemerle was bought by the syndicate S.M.A.B.T.P. and since then Domaines Cordier have been in charge of its technical and commercial affairs.

Considerable renovation has been carried out including extensive new plantings and a totally new winemaking facility.

Evaluation: Should be upgraded to a third growth. An excellent value.

Style: In accordance with the Cordier philosophy of winemaking, the style of Cantemerle has changed, beginning with the 1981 vintage. the color of the wine has darkened and the wine has taken on an extra richness and measure of fruit. It has exquisite flavors and it is rare to find fruit flavors of such refinement.

Food: Ideal with roast veal, lamb and other red meats.