Viniou Reviews
La Fleur Pauillac 2014 is a distinguished red wine crafted in the prestigious Pauillac AOC, nestled within the revered Médoc subregion of Bordeaux. This Grand Cru reflects the classic Pauillac blend, where Cabernet Sauvignon dominates, often complemented by Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot. The 2014 vintage benefited from a relatively cool and wet summer followed by a superbly sunny September and October, enabling a slow, complete ripening of the grapes. Vinification in Pauillac’s respected estates typically involves careful sorting, extended maceration, and maturation for 18 to 20 months in high-quality French oak barrels, a process that imbues the wine with subtle structure and elegance. The result is a wine of deep garnet colour, exuding aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum, cedar, and hints of graphite, with a dense, finely tannic palate and a persistent, harmonious finish.
Pauillac, at the heart of the Médoc, is synonymous with some of Bordeaux’s most illustrious wines. The region is cooled by Atlantic breezes and hosts predominantly gravelly soils atop limestone and clay. This unique terroir ensures excellent drainage and heat retention, encouraging optimal grape maturity, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon which thrives here. Pauillac’s rich history as a winegrowing epicentre stretches back centuries, earning global renown for its structured, ageworthy reds. The climatic conditions of 2014 delivered wines of classic balance and freshness, promising longevity alongside immediate pleasure.
For the best culinary experience, pair La Fleur Pauillac 2014 with classic French dishes such as roast lamb with herbs, duck breast, or a ribeye steak with Bordelaise sauce. The wine will also pair beautifully with regional fare like entrecôte à la bordelaise, or, for a sophisticated touch, wood-roasted venison with blackcurrant sauce. Hard, aged cheeses such as Comté or aged Gouda will also complement its structure and complexity.
Serve this Pauillac at 16-18°C, ideally after an hour’s decanting to allow the bouquet to unfold. This temperature will reveal its graceful tannins and nuanced aromatics, making for an elegant and memorable tasting experience.
