2024 Château l'If Saint-Émilion

AND FIRST OFFER VALID UNTIL 31/12/2026 - DELIVERY SPRING 2027

About Château l'If and its location in Saint-Émilion

Château l'If is owned by Jacques Thienpont, also known for Le Pin in Pomerol. In 2010, he acquired a small vineyard of approximately five hectares just outside the centre of Saint-Émilion, a stone's throw from prestigious neighbours such as Troplong-Mondot. The location on a limestone plateau with clay and molasse soils offers ideal conditions for growing Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Due to a cool maritime climate with Atlantic influences, ripening is slow, resulting in wines with freshness and balance.

Soil structure and climatic conditions in 2024

The 2024 harvest took place after a long growing season, starting with a mild winter and early budding. Spring brought regular rainfall, which required careful vineyard care. A dry, mild summer followed, allowing the grapes to ripen optimally. August and September were cool, promoting a gradual ripening with a nice balance of sugar, acidity and phenolic ripeness. The diverse soils – from fossiliferous limestone to clayey slopes – produced expressive and energetic grapes.

Vinification and maturation of the Château l'If 2024

The blend is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. The harvest took place between October 4 and 8, 2024. Fermentation was carefully managed to preserve the freshness and purity of the fruit. The wine is aged for 12 to 16 months in oak barrels, 50% new and 50% previously used. This approach gives complexity without masking the character of the grapes.

Color, aroma and flavor profile of the wine

Château l'If 2024 shows a deep ruby red color. On the nose floral notes of violets, black cherries and minerals from the limestone. On the palate the wine offers a full body with silky tannins, a striking freshness and precise length. The chalky terroir gives tension and finesse, while the ripe Merlot provides depth and roundness. The alcohol remains modest (13%) and the acidity is lively, indicating excellent balance and potential for aging.

Ratings: 96-97 James Suckling, 94 Decanter, 93-95 Alexandre Ma, 92-94 Vinous (A. Galloni), 92 Jane Anson, 91-93+ The Wine Independent (L. Perrotti-Brown), 91-93 Jeb Dunnuck, 90-92 Vinous (N. Martin)

Would you like to order Château l'If wines online?

This wine is stored in our conditioned Wine Warehouse. Are you coming to pick up the wine? You will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, directly on the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address .

The full reviews from international wine journalists such as Parker, Suckling and Vinous can be read via the links next to the image on our website. This is a free service for our customers.

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Wine and food pairings at Château l'If

• Roast beef with fried mushrooms and mashed potatoes: The juicy structure of the meat goes well with the elegant tannins.
• Pasta with truffle cream sauce: The earthy notes of truffle complement the mineral and floral aromas of the wine.
• Roasted rack of lamb with rosemary: The character of the meat is enhanced by the depth and spiciness of the wine.
• Braised beef shank with carrot and celery: The dish calls for a wine with structure and freshness.
• Roast pigeon with balsamic reduction: Complex and refined, in harmony with the length and elegance of the wine.
• Tournedos Rossini with foie gras: The creamy texture and rich flavours call for a wine with tension and concentration.