Wines Madiran Roc de Pailhou - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Roc de Pailhou 2019 is a striking red from the Madiran AOC, located in the gentle foothills of the Pyrenees in South-West France. Madiran reds are famed for their robust structure and deep colour, primarily made from the Tannat grape, sometimes complemented by varieties such as Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2019 vintage was marked by balanced conditions, allowing for ripe tannins and expressive fruit. Winemaking in this part of the world typically involves extended maceration to extract both colour and tannic backbone, followed by ageing—often in oak barrels—to integrate flavours and soften the naturally forthright grape.

The Madiran AOC sits in a unique terroir shaped by the Atlantic influences that imbue freshness as well as the mineral-rich, gravelly soils excellent for Tannat’s vigour. This region, with its moderate rainfall, sunny days and cooling mountain breezes, creates the ideal circumstances for slow ripening and complexity in the grapes. Madiran’s winemaking heritage spans back to the Middle Ages and monastic times; the wines have long been celebrated for their longevity and depth, often enjoying a cult following among lovers of structured reds.

Given Roc de Pailhou’s likely bold profile, with dense black fruits, earthy nuances and firm yet mature tannins, it stands up beautifully to hearty fare. Classic regional pairings include confit de canard (duck confit), cassoulet or a richly sauced game such as wild boar or venison stew. The wine also complements hard cheeses like Ossau-Iraty from the nearby Pyrenees, and roasted root vegetables or mushrooms can enhance its complexity for vegetarian options.

To fully appreciate this Madiran, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow the tannins to soften and the aromas to open up. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C; this will showcase its structure and aromatic spectrum without accentuating the grip or masking the fruit. This is a wine to savour slowly, perfect for contemplative meals or special occasions.