Wines Haut-Médoc Château Pitray - Madame - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Château Pitray’s "Cuvée Madame" 2022 from the Haut-Médoc AOC is a splendid example of modern Bordeaux winemaking, embracing both tradition and careful innovation. This red blend, typical of the region, is likely composed predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, possibly with touches of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The 2022 vintage benefited from a warm, sunny growing season, yielding concentrated fruit with well-developed tannins and a balanced acidity. The wine presents an inviting aromatic profile of blackcurrant, ripe plum, and blackberry, intertwined with subtle notes of cedar, tobacco, and spices, thanks to judicious maturation—possibly including time in French oak. On the palate, you can expect a structured yet supple mouthfeel with elegant tannins, layers of dark fruit, and a persistent, harmonious finish.

The Haut-Médoc, situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, is renowned for its gravely soils that provide excellent drainage and encourage deep-rooting of the vines. This terroir, combined with Bordeaux’s moderate maritime climate, delivers wines of remarkable finesse and longevity. The region's proximity to the Atlantic tempers the heat and extends the growing season, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, which is key to the complexity and ageing potential of its wines. The Médoc’s winemaking heritage stretches back centuries, with estates such as Château Pitray upholding a tradition of excellence while integrating contemporary techniques to accentuate the character of their vineyards.

For food pairings, "Cuvée Madame" 2022 excels alongside classic Bordeaux cuisine. Consider serving it with roast lamb studded with garlic and rosemary, entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak with shallot and red wine sauce), or a confit de canard. It also pairs beautifully with wild mushroom dishes, hard cheeses like aged Comté, or even a simple platter of charcuterie. The wine’s structure and depth make it a fantastic partner to both refined and rustic fare, evoking the spirit of convivial French dining.

Serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before serving will help reveal its aromatic complexity and soften the youthful tannins. Enjoy now for its vibrancy or cellar for several years to unlock further elegance and depth.