Viniou Reviews
Château Pédesclaux’s 2022 Cuvée Fleur de Pédesclaux from Pauillac is a testament to the tradition and refinement of Bordeaux’s Left Bank. This red blend typically showcases a classic Pauillac assemblage dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, and depending on the vintage, touches of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot. The 2022 vintage was notable for its warm summer, imparting both concentration and ripeness, balanced by careful vineyard management that preserved freshness and elegance. The terroir of Pauillac, with its deep gravel soils, encourages excellent drainage and encourages the vines’ roots to delve deeply, resulting in wines of impressive structure and longevity. Vinification at Pédesclaux combines modern precision with respect for the terroir, including gentle extraction and judicious use of French oak, which integrates subtle smoky notes without overwhelming the vibrant fruit profile.
Pauillac, nestled along the Gironde estuary, is one of the most prestigious communes in Bordeaux, renowned for producing wines of power, depth, and poise. The region experiences a temperate maritime climate, softened by the proximity to the river, which helps moderate extremes of temperature. The gravelly soils are exceptional for Cabernet Sauvignon, enabling the development of deep-rooted vines and wines of remarkable complexity and ageing potential. Historically, Pauillac has been at the heart of Bordeaux’s winemaking tradition, with its châteaux often producing bottles that are benchmarks for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Fleur de Pédesclaux, with its youthful verve and approachable tannins, pairs beautifully with classic French cuisine. Opt for slow-braised lamb shank with rosemary, roast beef, or duck breast in a red wine sauce. Regional specialities like entrecôte à la bordelaise, finished with shallots and a splash of the wine, will highlight its dark fruit and savoury undertones. For a more casual pairing, a selection of aged cheeses such as Comté or Ossau-Iraty provides an excellent contrast to the wine’s structure.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine an hour before serving to allow its bouquet to fully open up. The ideal serving temperature is between 16-18°C, which will showcase both its freshness and aromatic complexity. Enjoy young for its vibrant fruit or cellar for several years to experience its evolution in depth and elegance.
