Château La Croix des Templiers 1975 from Pomerol is a mature red wine from one of Bordeaux’s most esteemed right bank appellations. Pomerol wines are celebrated for their depth, silkiness, and often a certain opulence. While the precise blend is typically not disclosed, producers in this appellation traditionally favour Merlot as the dominant grape, frequently complemented by smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and occasionally Cabernet Sauvignon. The 1975 vintage was known for yielding structured and age-worthy wines, particularly on the Right Bank, with a combination of robust tannin structure and concentrated fruit, now matured into complex tertiary aromas. At this advanced age, the wine would likely present a bouquet with notes of dried plum, truffle, cedar, tobacco leaf, and earthy undertones, aligning with the classic profile of well-aged Pomerol.
Pomerol is a relatively small and prestigious appellation on Bordeaux’s right bank, famous for its gravelly and clay-rich soils with iron deposits (crasse de fer), which contribute to the textural richness and complexity of its wines. The region’s moderate maritime climate is conducive to ripening Merlot to its full potential, giving rise to wines that are soft, plush, and round when young and capable of remarkable depth with age. Unlike much of Bordeaux, Pomerol estates are generally family-owned and relatively small, which allows for careful, artisanal vinification and blending.
This elegant, mature red is ideally paired with refined and savoury dishes supporting its subtlety and complexity. Think along the lines of simple roast lamb, truffled poultry, mushroom risotto, or a traditional entrecôte à la bordelaise prepared with a red wine sauce and shallots. Regional pairings such as confit de canard or a classic Bordeaux rib steak will also allow the wine’s nuanced flavours to shine. Mature Pomerol, with its silky texture and developed tertiary characteristics, is best served slightly below room temperature, around 17-18°C. It is advisable to decant gently to separate any sediment and to allow the wine to open up, but keep in mind that older wines can sometimes lose their aromatic profile rapidly. Enjoy this wine in elegant Bordeaux stems to fully appreciate the delicate layers it offers after nearly half a century of ageing.
