Wines Pomerol Château La Croix de Gay - 2024

Château La Croix de Gay 2024 from the renowned Pomerol appellation in Bordeaux is a classic red blend, dominated by Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc, as is traditional in this prestigious area. The 2024 vintage promises freshness and purity, thanks to a relatively mild spring and well-timed rainfall, which allowed for healthy, evenly ripened grapes. The wine is vinified with great care, often in a combination of stainless steel and concrete vats, followed by ageing in French oak barrels, some of which are new, bestowing subtle toasty and vanilla notes. Expect a deep ruby colour, with an expressive nose of black cherry, plum, violets, and hints of truffle. The palate is rounded, silky, and elegant, with fine tannins supporting ripe fruit, mocha, and a touch of graphite, ending on a persistent, harmonious finish.

Pomerol is a small but mighty appellation on the right bank of Bordeaux, highly prized for its nuanced and sensuous reds. The region benefits from a moderate maritime climate, which ensures gentler summers and consistent rainfall. This helps Merlot, the star grape, express plumpness and velvety texture, while the gravely, clay-rich soils—especially areas rich in blue clay—are perfect for water regulation, vital during warmer years. While Pomerol lacks the grand châteaux of the Médoc, its history is deep and its wines highly sought after, with many artisanal, family-run estates focusing on careful craftsmanship and expression of terroir.

To truly showcase the character of Château La Croix de Gay, serve it alongside dishes that highlight its depth and finesse. Traditional pairings include roast lamb with rosemary, duck breast with a wine sauce, or a classic entrecôte bordelaise. The wine also sings with earthy, umami-laden accompaniments such as mushroom risotto or truffle pasta, echoing the subtle truffle notes that are a Pomerol hallmark. A regional pairing with a confit de canard and Périgord potatoes would be exceptional.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour to allow its youthful notes to unfurl and serve it at 16-18°C. This temperature brings out the expressive fruit and allows the texture and finish to shine. Enjoy now for its vibrancy or allow it to age for greater complexity.