Wines Pomerol Château Haut-Maillet - 2014

Château Haut-Maillet 2014 is a classic expression of the Pomerol appellation in Bordeaux, crafted predominantly from Merlot, bolstered by smaller portions of Cabernet Franc and occasionally Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2014 vintage was shaped by a cool summer and a well-timed warm September, resulting in a wine that is beautifully balanced – offering generous notes of ripe black cherries, plum, and violets, with undertones of earthy truffle, graphite, and subtle oak influence from careful maturation. The palate is medium-bodied with refined tannins, exhibiting harmony between fruit and freshness, reminding us of Pomerol’s capacity for both immediate pleasure and graceful ageing.

Pomerol, found on the Right Bank of Bordeaux’s Gironde estuary, distinguishes itself by its intimate scale and focus on Merlot-driven wines. The region’s gravelly and sandy soils, layered over clay, particularly the famous blue clay, along with a temperate maritime climate, provide optimal ripening conditions. While it lacks a formal classification system, Pomerol boasts a rich history of small, family-owned estates producing some of the world’s most sought-after and ageworthy wines. Its proximity to the town of Libourne means it shares much of the medieval charm and viticultural heritage typical of Bordeaux’s right bank.

For food pairings, this Pomerol is ideally suited to classic dishes that reflect both refinement and depth. Roast duck with a cherry reduction, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, or beef Wellington will harmonise with the wine’s supple texture and dark fruit core. Regional southwest French cuisine such as confit de canard or a rich mushroom fricassée will further echo its earthy complexity. For cheese, a mature Comté or Saint-Nectaire will make a compelling match.

To appreciate its full bouquet and silkiness, serve Château Haut-Maillet 2014 at 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour before tasting will allow its aromatic layers to unfurl, revealing even more of the nuanced character that makes Pomerol so revered among Bordeaux lovers.