Wines Haut-Médoc Château Garonne Sainte Gemme - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Château Garonne Sainte Gemme 2015 is a red Bordeaux crafted in the Haut-Médoc AOC, situated on the left bank of the Gironde. The 2015 vintage benefited from an excellent growing season, marked by a warm, dry summer and a timely bout of rain prior to harvest, yielding ripe, concentrated fruit. Typical of the area, this wine is predominantly made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, possibly with smaller portions of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot, showcasing the region’s signature structure, freshness, and elegance. The terroir here consists mainly of gravelly soils, offering optimal drainage and helping the vines develop deep root systems, which, in turn, impart complexity and minerality to the wine. Vinification usually involves temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel or concrete vats, followed by ageing in oak barrels, which adds supple tannins and spicy, toasty notes.

The Médoc, an emblematic region of Bordeaux, has built its reputation over centuries for producing some of the world’s greatest red wines. Blessed with a temperate maritime climate, the vineyards benefit from the moderating influence of the nearby Atlantic Ocean and the Gironde estuary, which reduce frost risk and encourage slow, even ripening of the grapes. The gravelly soils, a legacy of ancient riverbeds, are particularly conducive to Cabernet Sauvignon, while the inclusion of Merlot offers roundness and velvety texture. The Médoc’s long viticultural history is intertwined with both innovation and tradition, seen in its famous châteaux and strict adherence to quality standards.

Château Garonne Sainte Gemme 2015, with its blend of ripe blackcurrant, plum and cherry flavours, complemented by subtle hints of cedar, tobacco and graphite, pairs beautifully with classic dishes such as roast lamb, beef Wellington, or daube de boeuf. Regional specialities like magret de canard (duck breast) or entrecôte à la bordelaise are also excellent choices, as their richness matches the wine's structure and depth. Aged cheeses, particularly Comté or aged Gouda, make for an enjoyable pairing as well.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine an hour before serving to allow it to open up and soften any remaining tannins. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C to enhance its vibrant fruit character and complex bouquet. This wine can also be cellared for several more years if you wish to further develop its tertiary aromas and achieve additional harmony.