Wines Pomerol Chateau Samson - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Château Samson 2019 from Pomerol AOC is a distinguished red wine, produced in one of Bordeaux's most celebrated appellations for Merlot-based blends. The 2019 vintage was characterised by an excellent growing season; warm but not excessively hot, with timely rainfalls ensuring a perfect maturation of the grapes. While Merlot is the dominant grape in Pomerol, notes of Cabernet Franc and, occasionally, Cabernet Sauvignon may be present to bring structure and aromatic complexity. The terroir of Pomerol is renowned for its clay-rich soils with veins of iron oxide, often described as "crasse de fer," which contributes to the wine’s plush texture and depth. Vinification at Château Samson typically involves gentle extraction and ageing in French oak barrels, enhancing the wine's aromatic complexity and softening the tannins over time.

Pomerol as a region holds a special place in the world of wine, despite being rather small compared to other Bordeaux appellations. Its proximity to the river Isle creates a microclimate, tempering extremes while encouraging healthy ripening. The clay-gravel soils of Le Libournais are particularly favourable to Merlot, which thrives here and produces wines of exceptional texture, suppleness, and perfume. Pomerol's long history is closely linked to family-run estates rather than large châteaux, giving the area a unique sense of tradition and authenticity.

For food pairings, Château Samson 2019, with its generous, velvety mouthfeel and fleshy fruit profile, is ideally suited to classic French dishes such as duck magret, roast beef, or a rustic lamb stew. Local Périgord truffles, when in season, would make a superb accompaniment, as would earthy mushroom-based dishes. The wine’s depth and structure also allow it to stand up to more robust fare, such as game or a well-matured hard cheese like Comté.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Pomerol at 16-18°C, allowing the wine to open up in the glass or decanting it for about an hour. This will help showcase its bouquet of ripe dark fruit, subtle spice, and a touch of truffle, which are hallmarks of great Pomerol.