L’If Collines de L'If 2019

L’If Collines de L’If 2019 : Elegant, Aromatic, and Terrior-Driven

A Small Project with Great Roots

Known for the iconic Pomerol estate Le Pin, Jacques Thienpont acquired this Saint-Émilion property in 2010, renaming it L’If (the yew tree). The first vintage under the name L’If was

2011. Located near Troplong Mondot and Valandraud, the purchase carried historical resonance, as the Thienpont family had owned Troplong Mondot in the 1920s. Formerly known as Château Haut-Plantey and Le Bouygue, the estate has since gained a strong reputation and growing demand.

Originally covering 5 hectares, the vineyard was expanded to 8 hectares through additional acquisitions. A major replanting programme followed, reshaping the estate and establishing a vineyard worthy of the Thienpont name. Cabernet Sauvignon was removed, leaving a planting dominated by Merlot (around 75%) with Cabernet Franc (around 25%). The estate is managed day-to-day by Cyrille Thienpont, one of Jacques’s nephews. A second wine, Les Collines de l’If, completes the range.

Vinification

The vinification of L’if takes place in conical-shaped, temperature-controlled, stainless-steel vats. Malolactic fermentation in 50% new, French oak barrels.

The wine aged in 50% new, French oak barrels for an average of 12 to 16 months before bottling.

Expressive and fresh with notes of autumn fruits, liquorice and spices. It has a lovely creamy texture and an conveys an accessibility, good richness and an attractive balance between fruit and soil with a touch of mint. The finish is long with the red fruit character that embodies Saint-Emilion wines.

Food pairing: veal, lamb, duck and also good with Asian dishes, mushrooms, and pasta.

Whether savored during a cozy evening at The Farm at Al Barari, a rooftop dinner at Caesars Palace Bluewaters, a sunset gathering by Corniche Abu Dhabi, or a festive meal at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island, L’If Collines de L’If 2019 brings refined Provençal charm and expressive elegance to every moment.