Wines Pauillac Château Richebon - Les Grands Monteil - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Château Richebon’s Cuvée Les Grands Monteil 2021, from the prestigious Pauillac AOC in Bordeaux’s Médoc region, stands as a classic expression of left bank Bordeaux reds. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, blended with Merlot and possibly a touch of Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc, this cuvée presents a deep ruby colour and robust tannic structure. The 2021 vintage reveals a cooler, more restrained profile due to a challenging growing season marked by spring frosts and a relatively mild summer, resulting in wines that offer freshness, moderate alcohol, and aromatic clarity rather than sheer power. Expect aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, graphite, cedar and subtle tobacco notes, accompanied by lively acidity and a long, persistent finish – a true reflection of the Pauillac terroir.

Pauillac is situated on a gravel-rich terrace along the left bank of the Gironde estuary. The gravelly soils are ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, providing excellent drainage and heat retention, which helps in ripening the grapes fully even in cooler years. Pauillac’s reputation is built on centuries of history and is home to some of the most celebrated estates in Bordeaux. The region enjoys a temperate maritime climate, tempered by the nearby Atlantic Ocean and river, which moderates temperatures and reduces the risk of vine diseases. Château Richebon, while not classified, benefits from these exceptional natural conditions and traditional Bordeaux winemaking techniques, offering a genuine taste of the appellation’s identity.

For food pairings, this Pauillac red is a wonderful partner to classic French fare such as entrecôte bordelaise (ribeye steak with red wine and shallot sauce), roast lamb with garlic and herbs, or duck breast. Regional cheeses like Ossau-Iraty or Comté are also excellent matches, while for a more international twist, try it with grilled venison or wild mushroom risotto. Its structure equally supports rich vegetarian dishes like lentil stew or ratatouille.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow the bouquet to open up, and serve at 16-18°C. This will enhance the aromatic complexity and finesse of its tannins, ensuring a well-rounded tasting experience, whether the wine is enjoyed now or after a few years of cellaring.