On the left bank of Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon is King. Whip to the right and the King takes a back seat - Merlot becomes the chauffeur. It's the terroir. The high proportion of clay in St Emilion and cooler conditions provide the idyllic environment for Merlot. At this estate grapes are hand-harvested but minimal intervention takes place, yielding very natural wines. Classic aromas of ripe plummy fruit layer both the aroma and palate of Chateau Bel Air and 12 months in oak adds texture and depth.