Wines Saint-Émilion Maison Sichel - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Maison Sichel Saint-Émilion 2021 is a classic red blend from one of Bordeaux's most celebrated appellations. Typically composed primarily of Merlot, accented by Cabernet Franc and occasionally a small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine from the 2021 vintage reflects both the challenges and strengths of the year. Cooler conditions and spells of rain required careful vineyard management, resulting in wines with moderate ripeness, vibrant acidity, and pronounced aromatic clarity. The terroir of Saint-Émilion is distinguished by its limestone plateau, clay slopes, and sandy foothills, which lend structure, finesse, and a distinctive mineral note to the finished wine. The vinification process here favours balance over extraction, gently coaxing out red and black fruit notes, subtle spice, and a silky tannic frame ideal for medium-term ageing.

The Saint-Émilion region, situated on Bordeaux's Right Bank, enjoys a temperate maritime climate. The combination of limestone-rich soils and well-draining slopes encourages deep root growth and naturally limits yields, contributing to the complexity and longevity of its wines. Saint-Émilion boasts a rich winemaking heritage, stretching back to Roman times, and today is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its picturesque village and vineyard landscapes. The châteaux here, Maison Sichel among them, are known for blending innovation with tradition, crafting wines that express the unique character of each plot.

For food pairing, a Saint-Émilion such as this shows beautifully alongside classic French dishes. Think entrecôte bordelaise (steak with a wine and shallot sauce), confit duck, or a mushroom and truffle risotto. Regional cheeses like Saint-Nectaire or aged Comté will highlight the wine’s supple tannins and layered fruit. Its freshness and moderate body also make it a fine match for roasted poultry or a lentil and vegetable cassoulet.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for around an hour will help the aromatics unfurl, revealing notes of plum, raspberry, and gentle oak. Maison Sichel Saint-Émilion 2021 is approachable now, though it will develop further complexity over the next three to five years if you choose to age it in your cellar.