Viniou Reviews
Château Croque-Michotte 2018 is a distinguished Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, hailing from one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated subregions. Predominantly crafted from Merlot, with supporting roles often played by Cabernet Franc and occasionally Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine from the excellent 2018 vintage displays all the richness and poise expected from its classification. The terroir of Croque-Michotte is characterised by a unique juxtaposition of sandy-clay soils with gravelly qualities, imparting elegance and complexity. Vinification here tends to favour traditional methods, with careful extraction and ageing in French oak, lending subtle vanilla and spicy undertones to its pure, ripe fruit profile. On the palate, the wine typically exhibits notes of dark cherry, plum and blackberry, with refined tannic structure, well-integrated oak, and a lingering, velvety finish.
Saint-Émilion itself is a historic and enchanting region on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, heavily influenced by the Dordogne river. The area benefits from a temperate maritime climate with ample sunshine, warm summers and sheltered conditions, ideal for slow ripening of Merlot. The limestone and clay-rich soils are particularly conducive to producing plush, fleshy wines with a deep sense of place—wines well-suited to sustained ageing and nuanced expression. With roots dating back to Roman times, the local winemaking tradition is steeped in history, and the Grand Cru classification assures a commitment to quality in both vineyard and cellar practices.
For food pairings, this Saint-Émilion Grand Cru shines alongside classic Bordeaux fare such as entrecôte à la bordelaise, lamb cutlets with rosemary, or roasted duck breast. The wine’s supple texture and bright acidity also make it a natural partner for mushroom risotto, game bird, or truffled poultry dishes. For a regional touch, consider serving it with cannelés or aged Comté cheese.
To fully appreciate its aromatic bouquet and textural finesse, serve Château Croque-Michotte 2018 at 16-18°C. Decanting for at least an hour will help open up the wine’s myriad layers, especially in its youth. This bottle promises pleasure now and rewarding evolution over the next decade.
