Wines Pauillac Château Armailhac - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Château Armailhac 2021 is a distinguished red wine from the renowned Pauillac appellation, situated in the heart of the Médoc region on the left bank of Bordeaux. As a Cinquième Cru Classé, this wine upholds a legacy of quality and typicity. The 2021 vintage is predominantly crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, which imparts structure and depth, blended with Merlot for rounded fruit, Cabernet Franc for aromatic complexity, and a touch of Petit Verdot adding spice and colour. The terroir comprises deep gravel soils that facilitate excellent drainage and contribute to the elegant tannic framework typical of Pauillac. Vinification at Château Armailhac follows traditional methods, with careful fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels, some new and some seasoned, for around 16 months.

The Pauillac region stands as an iconic symbol of Bordeaux excellence, home to three of the five First Growths. Its proximity to the Gironde estuary moderates the climate, offering a balance of rainfall and sunshine ideal for ripening Cabernet Sauvignon. Gravelly soils accumulated over centuries of glacial action allow roots to reach deep layers, fostering healthy vine development and imparting minerality and finesse to the wines. Pauillac has long been prized for producing powerful, age-worthy reds known for their blackcurrant, cedar, and graphite notes, a profile exemplified in Château Armailhac’s bottlings.

To showcase its harmonious structure and nuanced bouquet of dark berries, tobacco, and subtle oak, Château Armailhac 2021 is best paired with rich cuisine. Classic choices include roast lamb studded with garlic and rosemary, grilled ribeye steak, or a traditional entrecôte Bordelaise. For a local touch, consider serving it alongside Pauillac’s famed milk-fed lamb, or with earthy mushroom dishes featuring ceps or truffles. A mature Comté or aged cheddar cheese also elevates the wine’s intrinsic elegance.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for about an hour to allow the aromas to open fully. Serve at a temperature between 16 and 18°C to appreciate its freshness and depth without overwhelming the palate. With proper cellaring, this vintage has the potential to mature gracefully over the coming decade.