Wines Pauillac Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste - 1990

Viniou Reviews

Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste 1990, hailing from the prestigious Pauillac appellation in Bordeaux’s Médoc, stands as a benchmark for classic Left Bank claret. This red wine is built primarily on Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc, expressing the estate’s gravelly plateau terroir. The 1990 vintage is widely regarded as exceptional in Bordeaux, favouring optimal ripeness and concentration. With traditional vinification and extended ageing in French oak, this wine boasts both structure and elegance, enhanced further by nearly three decades of bottle development.

Pauillac itself is revered for its deep, complex red wines marked by firm tannins and remarkable longevity. The subregion benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with the cooling influence of the Gironde estuary moderating summer heat and shielding against frosts. Its gravelly soils, rich in minerals and well-draining, are ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, contributing to the appellation’s reputation for producing powerful yet refined wines. Grand-Puy-Lacoste, one of Pauillac’s classified growths, has a storied history dating back to the 18th century, and consistently delivers wines of profound depth and poise.

When it comes to food pairings, Grand-Puy-Lacoste 1990 is at its best alongside dishes that complement its structure and complexity. Traditional Bordeaux pairings such as roast lamb with garlic and herbs, entrecôte à la bordelaise, or grilled duck breast will harmonise beautifully with the wine’s mature tannins and nuanced flavours of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco. For a regional touch, try it with cèpes mushrooms sautéed in duck fat, which echo the earthy undertones of the wine.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow its bouquet to unfold. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C. This classic Pauillac, with its harmonious balance between fruit and tertiary notes, offers a memorable tasting experience and rewards contemplative sipping.