Château Auney L'Hermitage, Graves Blanc 2025

Château Auney L'Hermitage is a small family estate in La Brède, in the Graves region south of Bordeaux, run by Sylvie and Christian Auney. The property was formerly known as Château Le Chec before the family changed its name to Auney L'Hermitage in 2012. Christian Auney oversees the winemaking, and the estate has become particularly known for its white Graves. The domaine farms about 2.5 hectares of white vines, with an average vine age of around 25 years.

The white vineyard is planted primarily to sémillon, with sauvignon blanc and muscadelle, and sits on the classic gravelly and clay limestone soils of Graves. The blend for the regular Graves Blanc is approximately 65% sémillon, 20% muscadelle and 15% sauvignon blanc according to the estate's current importer, Rosenthal. The gravel provides drainage while the clay and limestone contribute texture and freshness. The result is a style of Bordeaux blanc that leans more toward richness and texture than a purely sauvignon driven white. 

Auney L'Hermitage farms organically, and the wines are made with a fairly traditional approach. The Graves Blanc is raised for around nine months in large 400 liter barrels with regular bâtonnage. The larger format and relatively gentle élevage allow the wine to develop the creamy, rounded texture associated with sémillon without making the oak the dominant feature. It is a good example of how traditional Bordeaux blanc can combine richness with freshness rather than relying on overtly aromatic fruit.

The 2025 should show the character that makes this wine so appealing: citrus and stone fruit alongside floral, honeyed and lightly nutty notes, with a chalky mineral edge. Sémillon provides the breadth and texture, while muscadelle and sauvignon bring lift and freshness. It is a versatile white with enough richness for roast chicken, creamy sauces and richer fish, but enough acidity and minerality to work beautifully as an aperitif as well.