Viniou Reviews
The 1997 Pacherenc-du-vic-bilh from Château B in the South-West of France, specifically the foothills of the Pyrenees, is a truly unique red wine. Although Pacherenc-du-vic-bilh is renowned for its white wines, this rouge from Cuvée Fleury Laplace offers an intriguing contradiction. The terroir combines rich soils with a microclimate influenced by the surrounding mountains, contributing to the distinct character of the wine. The region is known for its diverse climatic influences, with mild winters and warm summers. Château B has a longstanding reputation for producing expressive wines that capture the spirit of this beautiful area.
For pairing, consider robust dishes that can stand alongside the wine's complexity. Rich meat stews, duck confit, or lamb dishes exploit its depth and balance. Traditional regional fare like cassoulet would also be a superb match, highlighting the wine's structure and earthiness, while enhancing its inherent fruitiness.
Serve this wine at an ideal temperature of 16-18°C. A decanting period of about 30 minutes will allow it to fully open up and reveal its layers. Begin by observing its colour in the glass, which may present a garnet hue with age. On the nose, seek out aromas of dark fruit with possible earthy undertones. Finally, sip to appreciate its evolved tannins and quintessentially Southwestern structure.
