Wines Pauillac Château Plantey - 2012

Château Plantey 2012 is a red wine from the esteemed Pauillac appellation, located on the left bank of the Bordeaux region. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, with complementary Merlot and smaller additions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this Cru Bourgeois highlights the strengths of its terroir. The 2012 vintage was characterised by a challenging growing season, with a cool, wet spring and an autumn that finally brought favourable conditions for a later-than-usual harvest. Fermentation typically takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats before the wine is aged in French oak barrels, adding both structure and complexity. In the glass, expect aromas of blackcurrant, plum and cedar, with subtle notes of tobacco, graphite and a savoury, earthy undertone that is very much in keeping with the Pauillac profile. Tannins are firm yet beginning to round out with bottle age, and the wine displays a persistent, slightly spicy finish.

Pauillac is often considered the heart of the Médoc and is home to some of Bordeaux’s most revered châteaux. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate influenced by the nearby Gironde estuary, which moderates temperatures and helps reduce the risk of frost. Its gravelly soils are perfectly suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, allowing for excellent drainage and promoting deep root systems. The tradition of winemaking in Pauillac dates back centuries, and the appellation is celebrated for wines that combine powerful structure with aromatic finesse and superb ageing potential.

For food pairings, a classic choice would be roast lamb with rosemary and garlic, as the structure and depth of the wine will marry beautifully with the richness of the meat. Pauillac wines are also well suited to entrecôte à la bordelaise (ribeye steak with a Bordeaux wine sauce), roast duck breast or mature hard cheeses such as Comté or aged cheddar. If you’re looking for a regional touch, try it with duck confit or cep mushrooms sautéed in garlic.

To fully appreciate the aromatics and silky texture, decant the wine for at least an hour prior to serving. The optimal tasting temperature lies between 16-18°C, which will allow the complex bouquet and refined tannins of this Pauillac to shine.