Viniou Reviews
Château Haut-Pommarède 2022 from the Graves AOC is a classic red Bordeaux, drawing on the region’s well-established blending tradition. While exact blend details may vary, Graves reds typically feature a harmonious combination of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, sometimes complemented by small proportions of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot. The 2022 vintage, shaped by a warm and fairly dry season, has offered ripe, concentrated fruit, balanced with freshness and soft tannins. The vinification likely included temperature-controlled fermentation to preserve aromatic intensity, followed by careful ageing, partly in oak, to add structure and subtle notes of spice and toast.
The Graves region, situated on the left bank of the Garonne River in Bordeaux, takes its name from its unique gravelly soils. These well-drained soils are mixed with sand and clay, providing ideal conditions for both the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes to thrive, lending characteristic minerality and refined elegance to the wines. Graves has a storied history as one of Bordeaux’s earliest recognised wine areas, with winemaking dating back to Roman times. The local climate is temperate, moderated by the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean and river influences, enabling relatively consistent ripening from year to year.
With its supple structure and freshness, this Graves red lends itself beautifully to a variety of food pairings. Traditional southwest French dishes such as duck magret, confit de canard, or even roast lamb with garlic and herbs will harmonise with its depth and tannins. Mushroom-based dishes or grilled vegetables are also excellent companions. For a taste of the region, pair the wine with entrecôte à la Bordelaise (steak with a Bordeaux wine sauce) or a platter of aged Comté and Cantal cheeses.
For optimal enjoyment, serve Château Haut-Pommarède 2022 at 16-18°C after a brief decanting, allowing the wine’s aromatic complexity and supple tannins to fully express themselves. This vintage can be appreciated in its youth for its fruit-forward character, but it also has the structure for a few years of cellaring.
