Wines Saint-Émilion Château Pavie - 1982

Viniou Reviews

Château Pavie 1982 is an exceptional red wine from the prestigious Saint-Émilion AOC, located on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, with a proportion of Cabernet Franc and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, this Grand Cru stands out for its opulence and complexity. The 1982 vintage, widely recognised for both its quality and superb ageing potential, has allowed the wine to develop a harmonious bouquet of blackberries, plum compote, leather, mature tobacco, and subtle earthy undertones. The wine’s structure remains powerful yet velvety, its tannins now beautifully integrated, supporting nuanced tertiary notes of truffle, cedar, and dried fruit. The underlying limestone and clay soils of Pavie’s remarkable terroir impart both freshness and longevity, while traditional vinification methods ensure that the essence of each plot is faithfully expressed.

Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has held a significant place in Bordeaux’s viticultural history since Roman times. The region enjoys a temperate maritime climate, moderated by the nearby Dordogne River. Its undulating hills, featuring a patchwork of limestone, clay, and sand, yield wines of both elegance and strength. Saint-Émilion’s topography is particularly suited to Merlot, which flourishes here, giving the area’s grands crus their lush, aromatic signature. The historical classification system underscores the pursuit of excellence, with Pavie having ascended to the highest ranks.

This illustrious wine deserves dishes that complement its depth and sophistication. Traditional pairings include roast lamb with herbs, beef Wellington or tournedos Rossini, in which the earthiness of foie gras and truffle resonates with Pavie’s evolved character. For a regional touch, try a confit de canard or a truffled poultry dish, the richness and subtle game notes enhancing the wine’s earthy complexity. Hard cheeses such as aged Comté or old Cantal make fine companions as well.

Allow the bottle to stand upright for several hours before opening, and decant gently to avoid sediment. Serve Château Pavie 1982 at 17-18°C to best appreciate its intricate aromas and lingering finish. Given its age, the wine is at its peak, rewarding careful attention and patient enjoyment.