Château La Pointe’s 2022 "Cuvée Ballade" hails from Pomerol, one of Bordeaux’s most celebrated appellations, especially renowned for its plush, expressive red wines. As is typical of the region, the wine is a dry red, likely crafted from Merlot as the dominant grape, possibly blended with supporting varieties such as Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon, though precise proportions for this cuvée may vary. The 2022 vintage experienced warm, dry conditions across Bordeaux, often resulting in wines with concentrated fruit, supple tannins, and generous ripeness. The vinification at La Pointe is traditionally aimed at elegance and balance, seeking to express both the fruit and the nuance of Pomerol’s unique terroir.
The Pomerol appellation sits on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, where the proximity of the Dordogne River moderates temperatures and the soils—rich in clay, with gravel and sand in varying proportions—deliver wines of tremendous depth and aromatic subtlety. Pomerol may be small in area compared to other Bordeaux regions, but its reputation is outstanding, built on centuries of viticulture and the deft hands of family-run châteaux like La Pointe. The wines are celebrated for their velvety texture, aromatic complexity, and impressive age-worthiness.
With its likely lush fruit profile and refined structure, "Cuvée Ballade" is a versatile partner at the table. Classic pairings include roast lamb with Provencal herbs, beef fillet with truffle jus, or confit duck—dishes whose richness is complemented by the wine’s fullness. For a regional touch, Périgord-style dishes such as duck breast or slow-cooked pork with seasonal mushrooms would also harmonise beautifully.
For optimum enjoyment, serve this Pomerol at around 16-18°C after allowing the wine to breathe. Decanting for an hour or two can help to reveal the nuanced layers and aromatics, especially in its youth, showcasing both the grape’s generous fruit and the subtlety of the region’s terroir.
