Wines Pauillac Château Armailhac - 2016

Château Armailhac 2016, a distinguished red wine from the esteemed Pauillac appellation in Bordeaux’s Médoc, stands as a fine testament to both terroir and tradition. The vineyard, historically owned by the Baron Philippe de Rothschild family, cultivates the classic Bordeaux blend, with Cabernet Sauvignon as the principal grape, complemented by Merlot and smaller portions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The 2016 vintage benefited from an ideal growing season, marked by a warm, dry summer and timely rainfall before harvest, resulting in healthy, perfectly ripened grapes. Vinification follows traditional Bordeaux methods, with ageing in French oak barrels, contributing structure and complexity.

The Pauillac terroir, nestled along the left bank of the Gironde estuary, is renowned for its gravelly soils which provide excellent drainage. This encourages vines to develop deep root systems, yielding grapes of remarkable intensity and concentration. The maritime climate, tempered by the river, ensures mild winters and cool summers, ideal for slow and balanced grape maturation. Pauillac’s reputation is built upon centuries of winemaking, producing some of the world’s most revered and age-worthy reds.

On the palate, Château Armailhac 2016 reveals a harmonious balance of ripe blackcurrant, cassis, and subtle tobacco notes, underpinned by finely grained tannins and a persistent finish. Its depth and structure lend themselves beautifully to food pairings such as roast lamb with garlic and herbs, beef Wellington, or classic Pauillac fare like entrecôte à la bordelaise. Rich game dishes and mature cheeses, notably Comté or aged Gruyère, also make inspired companions.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour or two to allow its bouquet to unfurl. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C. Over the next decade, Château Armailhac 2016 will continue to evolve, promising greater harmony and aromatic complexity with cellaring.