Wines Pauillac Château Croizet-Bages - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Château Croizet-Bages 2020 is a distinguished red Bordeaux from the renowned Pauillac appellation, classified as a Grand Cru. This prestigious estate lies on the Left Bank of the Gironde, in the heart of the Médoc. The wine is a classic Pauillac blend, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc, each contributing to its complexity, structure, and ageing potential. The 2020 vintage was marked by an early, warm spring and a dry summer, resulting in concentrated, ripe fruit and firm tannins. Meticulous vinification at Château Croizet-Bages includes selective hand-picking, fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, and ageing in French oak barrels, typically 12 to 18 months, to enhance both fruit expression and subtle spicy notes.

Pauillac is one of the crown jewels of Bordeaux, famed for powerful, long-lived reds with remarkable balance. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, softened by the Atlantic and nearby river, offering moderate temperatures and ample rainfall. Pauillac's gravelly soils, rich in minerals and with excellent drainage, are perfectly suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, giving the wines their signature structure and elegance. The area's winemaking tradition stretches back centuries, and estates like Château Croizet-Bages contribute to Pauillac’s celebrated reputation for quality and prestige.

With its robust profile, this wine pairs excellently with classic French dishes. Try it alongside a rib of Pauillac lamb roasted with herbs, or a hearty beef stew such as boeuf en daube. Mature cheeses, especially Comté or aged Gouda, will complement the structure and tannins. For a regional touch, consider canard aux cèpes (duck with wild mushrooms), which matches the wine's earthy undertones.

To fully appreciate Château Croizet-Bages 2020, decant it at least one hour prior to tasting to allow the aromas and flavours to open. Serve at 16-18°C for optimal expression of fruit, oak, and tannins. This wine will continue to evolve gracefully in bottle for a decade or more, rewarding cellaring with nuanced complexity.