Wines Pomerol R - Château Franc-Maillet - 1993

Viniou Reviews

The 1993 Château Franc-Maillet from Pomerol, Bordeaux, is a delightful red blend that showcases the region's renowned winemaking expertise. Pomerol is celebrated for its predominantly Merlot-driven wines, which this cuvée likely embodies, offering rich and velvety textures. The Libournais subregion, with its gravelly clay soils, imparts excellent drainage and minerality, enhancing the wine's complexity. The temperate maritime climate of Bordeaux ensures slow, even ripening of the grapes, preserving vibrant acidity and balanced tannins. Although not classified under any particular ranking, Château R boasts a history of meticulous vinification practices, contributing to the elegance and depth found in their wines.

For pairing, this Pomerol excels alongside rich, flavourful dishes. Consider a traditional Beef Wellington or a classic duck à l'orange, which will harmonize beautifully with the wine’s plush fruit and refined structure. The wine's earthy, sophisticated notes also pair wonderfully with mushroom-based dishes, such as a porcini risotto, and naturally complementing the regional speciality, magret de canard from southwestern France.

To fully appreciate this wine, serve it at around 16-18°C (60-64°F). It's recommended to decant it for about 30 minutes to one hour to awaken its bouquet and soften the tannins. Begin your tasting by observing the wine’s deep ruby hue, followed by inhaling its complex aromas of plum and subtle earthy undertones. Finally, sip leisurely to experience the full-bodied palate and lingering finish, a testament to the calibre of Pomerol wines.