Viniou Reviews
Château Villadiere 2021, hailing from the Lussac-Saint-Émilion AOC in Bordeaux, is an inviting red wine that reflects the character of its appellation within the prestigious Libournais subregion. The blend is typically Merlot-dominant, supplemented by Cabernet Franc and occasionally a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, as is traditional in Right Bank Bordeaux. The 2021 vintage in Bordeaux was marked by tricky spring frost and cooler conditions, resulting in fresh, expressive reds with moderate ripeness, good acidity and aromatic precision. Vinification at Château Villadiere likely includes careful extraction to preserve fruit purity and a period of ageing in French oak, lending subtle spicy and toasty notes alongside a classic profile of red and black fruits—think plum, cherry and a touch of blackcurrant—complemented by hints of violets, graphite and fine tannins.
Lussac-Saint-Émilion sits on the northern extension of the Saint-Émilion plateau and features limestone and clay soils ideally suited to Merlot, imparting plush fruit and finesse to the wines. The region benefits from a temperate oceanic climate, with sufficient rainfall and moderate summers promoting gradual grape ripening. Although Lussac-Saint-Émilion is less renowned than its neighbour Saint-Émilion, its wines often represent excellent value and share some of the same elegant structure and depth. The appellation has a long history, with vineyards established since the Roman era and a tradition of family-run estates.
For food pairings, Château Villadiere 2021 would complement classic Bordeaux fare such as entrecôte steak with shallots, duck breast with cherries, or roast lamb with herbs. It also performs beautifully with earthy mushroom dishes, lentil ragouts, or an assortment of semi-matured cheeses like Comté or Tomme de Savoie. Regional pairings could include a Bordelaise sauce or simply a rustic pâté de campagne.
To best enjoy this wine, serve it at 16-18°C. Decanting it for around 30 minutes is recommended to open up the bouquet and soften the tannins, especially given the freshness of the 2021 vintage. This is a lovely, approachable Bordeaux to enjoy now or over the next four to five years.
