Château De Valois, Pomerol, 2018, Pomerol (AOC)

'One-Liner'
A rich, polished Pomerol with plum, liquorice and soft, lingering tannins.

Tasting Note
Deep ruby in the glass. The nose leans into ripe plum and red-berry fruit, with a touch of raisined richness, cedar and liquorice. On the palate it is generous and layered, with juicy black fruit, supple tannins and enough freshness to keep the wine balanced rather than heavy. There is real depth here, but it stays smooth and composed.

Country: France
Region: Bordeaux
Sub-Region: Pomerol AOC
Grape(s): 77% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon
ABV: 14.5%
Friendly: n/a

Awards & Critics' Scores
92pts - Wine Enthusiast

The Story
Château de Valois sits in one of Bordeaux’s most sought-after small appellations, where Merlot tends to lead and texture matters as much as power. The estate was once part of the wider Figeac holdings, and today remains in family hands under the Leydet family. That feels reflected in the wine itself – it is very much in the Pomerol mould, with plush fruit, softer contours and a more immediate generosity than many Left Bank claret styles, but still enough structure to feel serious.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Barbecue duck with sticky berry glaze
- Vegetarian: Mushroom and Thyme Tart
- Vegan: Braised red cabbage with lentils and roasted onions