Wines Saint-Émilion Château Pavie Macquin - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Château Pavie Macquin 2023 is a remarkable expression from the prestigious Saint-Émilion appellation in Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, often blended harmoniously with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine embodies the elegance and complexity for which the region’s Right Bank is celebrated. The 2023 vintage benefits from a growing season marked by both generous sun and well-timed rainfall, permitting grapes to ripen fully while retaining freshness. The terroir of Château Pavie Macquin is distinguished by its elevated clay-limestone plateau, imbuing the wine with both power and finesse. Traditional vinification techniques, with careful extraction and maturation in French oak barrels, heighten the wine’s aromatic depth and structure, promising excellent ageing potential.

Saint-Émilion itself is one of Bordeaux’s most historic and picturesque wine regions, defined by its gently rolling hills, complex soils, and a temperate Atlantic-influenced climate. The clay-limestone soils impart minerality and structure, particularly beneficial for Merlot, the signature grape of the area. Winemaking in Saint-Émilion dates back to Roman times, and its Grand Cru Classé estates like Pavie Macquin are renowned for their commitment to quality and expression of unique terroir. This region is also celebrated for its medieval architecture and longstanding viticultural traditions, making it a vital part of Bordeaux’s global reputation.

For pairing, this Premier Grand Cru Classé shines with rich, earthy dishes and roasted meats. Classic Bordeaux pairings such as rack of lamb with herbs, duck breast with mushroom fricassée, or beef fillet with black truffle sauce complement the wine’s round tannins and dark fruit profile. Local Périgord truffles, wild game, or a traditional Saint-Émilion mushroom tart are sublime regional accompaniments. Hard cheeses like aged Comté also pair beautifully.

To savour Château Pavie Macquin 2023 at its best, decant the wine for at least one hour to allow the aromatics to fully unfold. Serve at 16-18°C to highlight the nuanced bouquet of plum, black cherry, violets, and subtle spice, along with the wine’s elegant structure and lingering mineral finish.