Wines Pomerol Château Vieux Maillet - 2014

Viniou Reviews

Château Vieux Maillet 2014 is a classic representation of Pomerol, an esteemed appellation on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. This wine is composed predominantly of Merlot, possibly with a touch of Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon, as is traditional in the region. The 2014 vintage benefited from a long growing season, with a warm late summer allowing for optimal ripeness and concentration. After meticulous sorting and vinification, the wine is typically aged in French oak barrels, imparting subtle notes of spice and further complexity to the rich fruit core. The result is an elegant yet generous red with aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, violet, hints of truffle, and a fine-grained tannic structure.

Pomerol is a small but highly regarded appellation in the Libournais subregion of Bordeaux, perched on the Right Bank of the Dordogne. The region’s fame derives largely from its unique soils, a mix of gravel, sand, and the famous blue clay that particularly suits Merlot, conferring suppleness and profound aromatic intensity to the wines. Pomerol does not boast grand châteaux but rather small, family-owned domaines steeped in tradition. The maritime climate, moderated by the river, and mild, damp winters, allow for slow, even ripening—a key to Merlot’s expressiveness and depth. The wines of Pomerol are cherished for their silky elegance, accessibility, and ageing potential.

For food pairings, this Pomerol excels alongside classic French dishes such as duck breast with cherry or plum sauce, tournedos Rossini, or roast lamb with rosemary. Rich poultry like guinea fowl or quail, and earthy, truffle-based recipes as found locally, harmonise beautifully with its plush fruit and refined texture. Mature cheeses such as Comté or Saint-Nectaire make for an elegant match as well.

Serve Château Vieux Maillet 2014 at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour allows the wine’s bouquet to open fully, enhancing its characteristic depth and complexity. This vintage is starting to show finesse and maturity, but will continue to evolve gracefully for several years.