Viniou Reviews
Château Les Gravières 2019 from the renowned Saint-Émilion appellation in Bordeaux is a fine example of the Merlot-dominant blends for which this region is celebrated. Though the precise blend is not stated, it is typical of Saint-Émilion wines to be crafted primarily from Merlot, often complemented by Cabernet Franc and occasionally Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a balanced weather pattern, enabling grapes to ripen beautifully while maintaining vital freshness. The terroir here is a patchwork of gravel, clay, and limestone soils, which impart both power and elegance to the wine. Traditional vinification techniques are used, often involving careful extraction and extended maturation in French oak barrels, allowing the wine’s structure and aromatics to integrate harmoniously.
Saint-Émilion, located on Bordeaux’s right bank, is steeped in history and winemaking tradition. The village itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, framed by rolling vineyards, centuries-old châteaux, and a unique patchwork of soils. The region experiences a moderate maritime climate, with warm summers balanced by the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Dordogne river. This climate, coupled with the prevalent limestone and clay-gravel soils, is ideally suited to Merlot – yielding plush, expressive reds with supple tannins and layers of ripe fruit and spice.
To showcase the rich character and plush texture of Château Les Gravières 2019, pair it with classic dishes such as roast lamb with garlic and rosemary, duck breast with a red wine reduction, or a hearty mushroom risotto. Traditional local fare from the region, like entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak with a shallot and red wine sauce), would be a superb match, as well as aged hard cheeses such as Comté or Cantal.
For the best tasting experience, serve this Saint-Émilion at around 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before serving will help lift the subtle aromatics and allow the tannins to soften, revealing the wine’s complexity and depth. Enjoy now for its vibrant fruit or cellar for up to a decade for further evolution.
