Welcome to Pomerol, an iconic appellation of the Bordeaux right bank! Here, the vineyards and châteaux of the region reveal deep and silky red wines as well as unique soils over which Merlot reigns supreme. Each bottle of Pomerol is an invitation to discover the history of a rare terroir, where power and delicacy meet in perfect harmony.
Whether you are passionate about Bordeaux wines or simply eager to deepen your knowledge of the AOC Pomerol and the right bank, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of this wine treasure and let each sip transport you.Happy reading !
Summary
History and origins of the Pomerol appellation
The origins of viticulture in Pomerol and on the right bank date back to Antiquity.Although few documents remain from this period, archaeological evidence indeed indicates that the vine was already present in the region during the 1st century BC. It was most likely the Romans who laid the foundations for the future Bordeaux vineyard. However, the Pomerol area was then marshy and generally not conducive to vine cultivation.
In the Middle Ages, religious orders significantly contributed to the development of viticulture in Europe. The monks, particularly those of the orders Benedictines and Cistercians, indeed played a crucial role in the expansion of the Pomerol vineyard.These pioneers cleared and drained numerous plots to make them arable, also introducing advanced viticulture techniques.
The religious influence remained strong in the region until the French Revolution, and monasteries were often at the origin of the founding of wine estates, as indicated by many château names still today (Château L’Évangile, Clos L’Église, Château La Croix, etc.).
During the Renaissance, the viticulture of Pomerol continued to develop. The Bordeaux region became a nerve center for the wine trade to England and Holland. However, unlike neighboring regions like Médoc, Pomerol had not yet acquired the reputation it holds today.Production there has indeed remained relatively modest in terms of volume, and Pomerol wines are still often associated with wines of lesser quality compared to their counterparts from Saint-Émilion or Médoc. The first written records attesting to the trade of Pomerol wines appear during this period, proving the beginning of recognition of the quality of the wines.
During the 17th century, the Dutch also played a major role in the development of Pomerol, thanks to their marsh drainage projects to gradually allow Pomerol to become a terroir conducive to quality viticulture.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, many prestigious estates were created: Château Pétrus, Château La Conseillante, Château Trotanoy, Vieux Château Certan, Château Gazin, and Château Clinet are part of this list. However, the phylloxera crisis at the end of the century devastated a large part of the French vineyards, including that of Pomerol, leading to a complete reorganization of the Bordeaux vineyard from the late 1870s.
The 20th century is ultimately the era of recognition for Pomerol, which then entered the circle of great Bordeaux wines.In 1936, the Pomerol controlled designation of origin (AOC) was officially created, helping to solidify the reputation of the region and the wines of the right bank.
Over the decades, Pomerol has built a worldwide reputation thanks to the quality of its wines, whose characteristics are distinctly different from other Bordeaux bottles due to their roundness, suppleness, and concentration.
In the 1950s to 1970s, some Pomerol estates, notably the prestigious Château Pétrus, then acquired an almost mythical status, attracting an international clientele.
Furthermore, unlike other Bordeaux appellations such as those of the Médoc, Pomerol has never had an official classification for its wines or estates.The bottles of the appellation, however, enjoy a recognition that rivals those of the Classified Growths like those of Margaux or Pauillac.
Today, and although covering only 800 hectares, the Pomerol appellation is one of the most prestigious AOCs in Bordeaux, and enthusiasts eagerly seek out its wines, even during the en primeur sales !
Map of Bordeaux wine appellations
Climate and soils of the Pomerol AOC
Like the other appellations in the Bordeaux region, and like its neighbor Saint-Émilion, the Pomerol AOC benefits from a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers.Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, although autumns are often wetter.
These climatic conditions ensure adequate hydration of the vines, essential for the development of grape varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrive in the region.
Pomerol is also distinguished by the diversity of its soils. Here are the main types of terroir found in the appellation :
- Blue clay : The AOP Pomerol is the only one in the Bordeaux region to have blue clay in its subsoil.Also known as the " clay buttonhole ", this is notably present in the terroir of Pétrus and gives the red wines of Pomerol a unique roundness and superb aromatic power. Merlot is particularly well-suited to this iron-rich terroir.
- Fine gravel : terroir present in the southeastern part of the appellation, within estates like La Conseillante or Vieux Château Certan. The gravel provides ideal drainage conditions, promoting even ripening of the grapes. These soils produce elegant, aromatic, and fine wines.
- Sandy clays : These soils are more commonly found on the outskirts of Pomerol and are mixed with gravel.They produce wines that are a bit more supple and accessible in their youth, with lighter tannins, yet always balanced and flavorful.
- Gravelly clays : A mix of clay and gravel is found in certain central and southern areas of Pomerol, promoting excellent water retention for optimal grape ripening. The wines from these terroirs often have a beautiful structure and good aging potential.
- Sandy soils : primarily located on the northern and eastern outskirts of the appellation, these terroirs produce lighter and fruitier wines, often accessible in their youth, with a less pronounced aromatic intensity than wines evolving on clay or gravel soils.
You will have understood, each terroir here brings a unique expression to Merlot and other grape varieties of the appellation, allowing the estates to create wines with varied styles, while remaining true to the identity of Pomerol.
Map of Pomerol's terroirs: richness and diversity of soils
The wines of the AOC Pomerol
The wines of the AOC Pomerol are exclusively red, as the production of white wine is not permitted in the appellation. The AOC's cuvées are also made from three main grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Merlot accounts for about 80% of the production and gives the local wines their velvety character, deep aromas of red and black fruits, as well as a beautiful roundness on the palate.
The Cabernet Franc accounts for about 15% of the planting and enriches the blend with spicy notes and hints of violet.
Finally, the Cabernet Sauvignon, making up about 5% of the planting, adds a touch of structure and tannins, thus ensuring good aging potential.
With this blend (Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon), Pomerol wines offer a unique tasting experience: a deep red color, captivating aromas of violet, black fruits, and a silky texture. When young, they are rich and powerful yet already approachable.Over time, their aromas develop in complexity (notably truffle), and their structure becomes more creamy and velvety... a delight !
The Pomerol crus are among the most sought-after wines of Bordeaux. Their exceptional quality easily rivals that of the great names of Saint-Émilion and Médoc.
Due to their rarity and quality, these bottles are often sold today at a premium price! Unlike Saint-Émilion, Pomerol does not have any official classification, which adds a particular charm to this appellation, where each estate shines by its own merit.
Merlot: The king grape variety of Pomerol red wines
What to eat with a Pomerol wine?
You are surely curious to discover the different dishes that can pair with Pomerol red wine! As you will discover, it is particularly a perfect ally for red meats and dishes with sauce.
To enhance your tasting experience, here are some food and wine pairing suggestions that will elevate the finesse of this Bordeaux gem.
Red meats : the timeless pairing
- Filet mignon with truffles: the richness and earthy aromas of Pomerol red wines harmonize beautifully with this dish. The truffle notes enhance the depth of the wine, creating a true symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. This pairing highlights the velvety and aromatic character of these Bordeaux wines.
- Rib of beef : the meaty texture of the rib of beef pairs perfectly here with the tannic structure of Pomerol wines. The combination of the meat's fat and the wine's power is an essential pairing for red meat enthusiasts.This dish highlights the richness and depth that so well characterize the wines of Bordeaux, particularly those from the right bank.
- Roasted rack of lamb : the silky tannins of Pomerol red wines soften the richness of the roasted lamb. This rustic and flavorful dish, accompanied by seasonal vegetables, allows for a full appreciation of the subtle nuances and deep aromas that only Bordeaux wines can offer.
Game and poultry
If you prefer poultry, consider pairing your Pomerol with duck à l'orange.The fruity and slightly spicy notes of this wine, derived from Merlot as well as Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, indeed harmonize beautifully with the tangy sweetness of orange.
Game and stews are also great pairings to try!
Aged cheeses
White wines generally pair better with cheeses. However, let yourself be surprised this time! The wines and bottles of Pomerol indeed pair magnificently with cheeses, especially those made from aged sheep's milk.
Their salty flavors and delicate aromas blend with the nuances of Pomerol to enhance its fruity and earthy notes. A pairing that highlights the subtlety of this exceptional wine.
Pomerol and aged sheep cheese: a delicious pairing
To fully enjoy the aromas of your Pomerol, I recommend serving it between 16 and 18° C. Also, do not hesitate to decant your wine for an hour or two before tasting it... especially if you drink it in its youth! This will indeed reveal all its aromatic complexity.
The best wines of the Pomerol appellation
Renowned for its high-quality red wines, the Pomerol appellation is home to a multitude of prestigious châteaux and wine estates.Among them, the Château de Valois stands out as a true reference.
The Leydet family vineyard is ideally located between two famous appellations: the AOC Saint-Émilion, home to the Château Leydet-Valentin, and the AOC Pomerol, with the Château de Valois.
The red wines of this château are predominantly composed of Merlot, judiciously blended with a hint of Cabernet Franc. Certified organic since 2012, Château de Valois is also committed to producing superior quality wines that embody the very essence of the Pomerol appellation.
We highly recommend their bottles and their fine wines !
You will have understood, the AOC Pomerol embodies the perfect alliance between tradition and prestige at the heart of the great wines of Bordeaux. So let yourself be tempted by a red wine from this emblematic appellation by exploring the selection of
Do not hesitate to also explore wines from other appellations on the left bank such as those of Médoc (Margaux, Pauillac) or Graves (Pessac-Léognan), we have a fine selection at always fair prices !
So, which bottles will you choose ?
