Viniou Reviews
The 2019 Château Petit Cantenac from the esteemed Saint-Émilion appellation in Bordeaux is a remarkable red wine, emblematic of its region's renowned viticultural traditions. While the exact blend is not specified, Saint-Émilion wines are typically dominated by Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2019 vintage across Bordeaux was noted for its excellent weather, which permitted an ideal ripening period, producing wines with concentration and balance. The terroir of Saint-Émilion, especially in the Le Libournais subregion, features well-drained, gravelly and clay-limestone soils. These diverse soils enable the vines to yield grapes with great depth and complexity, which is a hallmark of the wines produced here.
Bordeaux, a region with a storied history dating back to Roman times, benefits from a temperate maritime climate, moderated by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The climate ensures a long growing season with sufficient warmth, punctuated by cooling breezes, which preserves the acidity and freshness of the wines. The complexity of Saint-Émilion wines often mirrors the rich history and traditions of the Bordeaux region.
Given the typically robust yet elegant profile of a Saint-Émilion wine, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider classic French cuisine such as duck confit or a hearty coq au vin. The wine's tannic structure also complements grilled lamb chops or a well-seasoned beef stew. For a regional match, a Bordelaise sauce accompanying a perfectly seared steak would be a sublime pairing, drawing out the wine’s complex flavours.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C. Allowing the wine to breathe for an hour before serving will further enhance its bouquet and allow its nuanced characteristics to shine through. Within this temperature range and with proper aeration, Château Petit Cantenac will reveal its full potential, offering a delightful tasting experience.
