Viniou Reviews
Fugue de Nénin 2018 is the second wine of Château Nénin, hailing from the prestigious Pomerol appellation on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. This blend, typically dominated by Merlot, complemented by a proportion of Cabernet Franc, presents the hallmark characteristics of the area: plush, generous fruit with a refined structure. The 2018 vintage was marked by a warm, even growing season following early challenges in the spring, resulting in wines of concentration, balance and expressive aromatics. Vinification here is meticulous, with careful extraction and maturation in French oak barrels, a portion of which are new, imparting subtle notes of spice and toast to the ripe fruit profile.
Pomerol, though one of Bordeaux’s smaller and most exclusive regions, is world-renowned for its merlot-dominant wines. The area’s sandy-clay soils with a significant proportion of gravel and, in the best sites, a subsoil of blue clay, are ideally suited to Merlot, contributing to the silkiness and depth of the wines. The climate is temperate and oceanic, benefiting from gentle rainfall and moderate temperatures, with vines often dating back several decades. Records of viticulture in Pomerol reach as far back as the Roman era, and today the region’s reputation is anchored by a focus on quality over quantity, with many properties, like Nénin, prioritising meticulous vineyard and cellar practices.
A wine with the depth and supple tannins of Fugue de Nénin 2018 pairs beautifully with classic French cuisine. Consider serving it alongside roast duck breast, beef fillet with mushroom sauce, or a traditional lamb navarin. For a regional touch, a Périgord-style confit de canard or a truffled potato gratin would be excellent choices, as would a simple plate of aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire cheese. The wine’s plush fruit and balanced oak also make it a fine match for earthy mushrooms and truffle-flavoured dishes.
To fully appreciate its aromas and silky texture, open Fugue de Nénin 2018 about an hour before serving, allowing it to breathe and express its nuances. The ideal serving temperature lies between 16-18°C. This will showcase the wine’s generous bouquet while preserving its freshness and structure, ensuring a rewarding tasting experience.
