Wines Pomerol Château Lagrange - 2017

Château Lagrange 2017 from Pomerol is a distinguished red wine that captures the essence of its celebrated appellation. Crafted from predominantly Merlot, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and possibly Cabernet Sauvignon, this vintage offers a harmonious balance between opulent fruit and refined structure. The 2017 vintage was shaped by a cool spring and challenging frost conditions, leading to relatively small yields and concentrated fruit. Vinification at Château Lagrange typically involves careful sorting, controlled fermentation in stainless steel, and ageing in French oak barrels, judiciously imparting both elegance and depth. In the glass, you can expect notes of ripe black cherries, plums, and violets, layered with nuances of truffle, tobacco, and fine-grained cedar.

Pomerol, on Bordeaux’s right bank in the Libournais region, is revered for its clay-rich soils, flecked with gravel and sand, which bring out the best in Merlot. The terroir’s exceptional water retention allows the vines to thrive even in drier vintages. Despite its modest size, Pomerol lacks a formal classification system, yet produces some of Bordeaux’s most sought-after wines, thanks in part to centuries of winemaking tradition and meticulous attention to detail. The temperate maritime climate, moderated by its proximity to the Dordogne River, helps create wines that combine plushness with remarkable longevity.

For food pairings, Château Lagrange 2017’s supple tannins and ripe fruit make it a superb match for classic Bordeaux fare such as roast duck breast, grilled lamb with rosemary, or beef Wellington. Traditional dishes from the region, like confit de canard or a rich mushroom ragout, will also beautifully complement the earthy undertones of the wine. Hard cheeses such as mature Comté or aged Gouda work well for a simpler accompaniment.

To fully enjoy its complexity, serve this wine slightly cool, at around 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting will help reveal its aromatic depth and soften the tannins. This vintage is approachable now but will evolve gracefully with a few more years in the cellar.