Once the white grapes have reached optimum maturity, the Sauvignon and Semillon grapes are harvested by machine. The Sémillon grapes are pressed immediately, whereas the Sauvignon is vatted immediately and undergoes pre-fermentation maceration. Pre-fermentation maceration is carried out under carbon dioxide gas to protect the grapes and must from oxidation. After pressing and settling out, some of the must is fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and some in new, 225-litre French oak barrels. Once fermentation is complete and the wines have been lightly racked, they are aged on the fine lees and stirred regularly. The different parcels of Sauvignon and Sémillon are then blended and fined with bentonite prior to bottling in January or February, depending on the vintage