Pomerol: the 2015 vintage

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The Pomerol appellation is one of the most prestigious in Bordeaux. Located on the right bank of the Dordogne, in the Libourne region, it is particularly well known for the grands crus it produces, such as Petrus. Its renown is well established, and it is one of the most sought-after appellations among oenophiles. This is an appellation producing exclusively red wine, which is a perfect reflection of the Bordeaux terroir, since all the region’s grape varieties can be used.

A flagship appellation, the pride of the Bordeaux vineyards

Winegrowing in Pomerol dates back to the 12th century. Indeed, it was at this time that the monks of the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem settled here and developed vineyards. The wine was initially used for religious purposes as a mass wine, then popularized by the Compostelle pilgrims who passed through the region. Pomerol wine rapidly took off thanks to its proximity to the town of Libourne and its port, which enabled production to be exported. However, the development of the Libourne wine trade marked a turning point in the history of the appellation with the creation of the Libourne-Paris railway line, which helped to raise the region’s profile among specifiers. Surprisingly enough, Pomerol is not listed in any of the official Bordeaux Grands Crus rankings. But that hasn’t stopped him from achieving a most glorious reputation.

Pure expression of the right bank

The appellation covers 770 hectares at the junction of the Saint-Émilion plateau. Merlot reigns supreme here, thanks in particular to the predominantly clay soils of the appellation, which allow the grape variety to express all its typicity and subtleties. The temperate climate and oceanic influences of the region make it a particular favorite. The vineyards enjoy relatively high temperatures, with mild winters and hot summers that are not drought-prone, thanks to the cooling effect of sea currents. The region’s even rainfall over the course of the year ensures a certain balance in vine-growing. The resulting wines are a perfect reflection of these characteristics. They combine finesse and intensity, and the well-melted tannins are almost forgotten beneath the velvety texture of the wine. The cuvées produced by the region’s winegrowers can be enjoyed young, but can also be aged for long periods, which will only enhance them.

Pomerol 2015

The 2015 vintage in the Pomerol appellation can be seen as an easy one. In fact, weather conditions were relatively optimal throughout the growing season, posing few problems for winegrowers. Temperatures remained mild from spring to late summer, with hot spells in June and July. The month of August provided an ideal start to veraison, with higher rainfall despite sustained temperatures. Finally, September’s wide temperature range allowed the grapes to ripen gently, just in time for the harvest. The 2015 vintage is therefore considered a great wine that ticked all the boxes of a fine year. The wine is highly concentrated, with aromas of ripe fruit and licorice.