Clos des Confidences

Clos des Confidences sits on the hallowed grounds of Saint-Émilion, where Cyril Gouy planted his roots in 2016. He acquired just 1.7 hectares of vines at the lieu-dit Aux Plantes, a small plot with sandy soils mixed with clay-free boulbenas. The terroir here is gentle, with limono-sable soils that give the wines their characteristic softness. The vines average 55 years old, which means deep roots and concentrated fruit. It's a tiny estate, but the location speaks volumes about what's possible in this legendary appellation.

A Family Story Reimagined

Cyril comes from four generations of winegrowers rooted in Monbazillac, where his family made sweet wines since his grandfather founded their vineyard in 1920. But Cyril wanted something different. He decided to break from tradition and focus on red wine, choosing Saint-Émilion's rich terroir to make his mark. He works entirely alone, cultivating and vinifying every step himself. He's advised by the team of Hubert de Boüard, the renowned oenologist behind Château Angélus. That guidance shows in the precision and balance of his wines. Traditional vinification happens in small-capacity vats over five weeks, with manual punching down three times daily. The wines then age 18 months in French oak barrels, gaining structure without losing freshness.

The Wine

Clos des Confidences produces Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, a blend dominated by 90% Merlot with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines show notes of raspberry, strawberry, blackcurrant, violet and grey pepper. There's beautiful balance on the palate, with juicy tension and fine, discreet tannins. The estate also makes Charme des Confidences and Plume des Confidences, offering different expressions of the same terroir. These are wines made with care and passion, reflecting both the personality of the winemaker and the character of old vines on sandy Saint-Émilion soils.