Wines Haut-Médoc Château Cissac - 2022

Château Cissac 2022, hailing from the Haut-Médoc AOC in Bordeaux, is a classic expression of the region. This red wine is typically a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and a touch of Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc contributing structure and freshness. The 2022 vintage benefited from favourable weather, allowing for optimal ripeness while maintaining balanced acidity. The gravelly terroir, characteristic of the Médoc, imparts minerality and elegance, while traditional vinification—with fermentation in temperature-controlled vats and careful oak ageing—adds layers of complexity, with notes of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco and a hint of spice.

The Haut-Médoc, situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, enjoys a temperate maritime climate buffered by the river and nearby Atlantic Ocean. The soils are predominantly gravel and sand atop a limestone subsoil, providing excellent drainage and encouraging the deep roots necessary for resilient vines. Bordeaux’s winemaking history stretches back to the Roman era, but it was in the 18th and 19th centuries that the Médoc established its reputation for producing age-worthy reds renowned for their finesse, structure and ability to evolve beautifully in bottle.

For food pairings, Château Cissac 2022’s firm tannins and vibrant fruit profile make it ideal with classic dishes such as rack of lamb with garlic and rosemary or entrecôte à la bordelaise. It also complements local fare like confit de canard, roast beef, or a selection of hard cheeses such as Comté or Ossau-Iraty. This wine will shine alongside earthy mushroom dishes, roasted root vegetables, or even a wild mushroom risotto.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C. Consider decanting for about an hour before tasting to allow the tannins to soften and the wine’s full aromatic profile to emerge. Château Cissac 2022 has the potential to age gracefully over the next decade, revealing increasing complexity and nuance over time.