Wines Saint-Estèphe Château Tronquoy-Lalande - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Château Tronquoy-Lalande 2018 is a classic red Bordeaux hailing from the prestigious Saint-Estèphe AOC, in the Médoc region. This wine is typically crafted from a blend dominated by Merlot and complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon, along with smaller proportions of Petit Verdot and occasionally Cabernet Franc. The 2018 vintage was marked by a warm growing season, resulting in ripe fruit and concentrated flavours. The estate's gravelly and clay-rich soils contribute structure and depth, while traditional vinification in stainless steel and ageing in French oak barrels—often with a portion of new oak—lend finesse, complexity and the potential for graceful ageing. Expect aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and plum, interwoven with hints of cedar, tobacco and gentle spices, while the palate offers generous fruit, firm yet integrated tannins, and a fresh acidity typical of Saint-Estèphe.

Saint-Estèphe is situated at the northern end of the Médoc, on the left bank of the Gironde estuary. The appellation is renowned for its powerful, long-lived red wines with a distinctive mineral edge, owed in part to the mix of gravel and clay soils that retain water and contribute to the wines’ robust structure. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and moderate summers, allowing for a steady ripening process. Saint-Estèphe has a long history of viticulture, producing sought-after wines since the 18th century, and continues to represent one of Bordeaux’s bastions of quality and tradition.

To best complement the structure and depth of Château Tronquoy-Lalande 2018, consider pairing it with hearty dishes such as roast lamb with herbs, entrecôte bordelaise, or a classic duck confit. Regional dishes, like magret de canard or cèpes à la bordelaise, will also flatter the wine’s earthy and savoury notes. Mature hard cheeses, particularly those from the South West of France, make excellent companions.

For an optimal tasting experience, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before serving will help it open up, revealing its aromatic complexity and fine texture. This vintage can be enjoyed now, but will also reward further cellaring over the next decade or more.