Viniou Reviews
Lagrave-Martillac Blanc 2005 from Pessac-Léognan AOC is a refined white wine hailing from one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious appellations. Typically crafted from a blend dominated by Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon with occasional touches of Muscadelle, this wine benefits from both the freshness of Sauvignon and the roundness of Sémillon. The 2005 vintage was marked by ample sunshine and balanced conditions, allowing a harmonious maturity of the grapes. In the demi-sec style, the wine retains a gentle sweetness, enhancing its aromatic complexity. The terroir of Pessac-Léognan, located within the Graves, is distinguished by gravelly soils that provide excellent drainage and contribute to the wine’s minerality and elegance. Vinification at Château Lagrave-Martillac often involves careful temperature control and gentle pressing, with partial fermentation or ageing in oak barrels to add further complexity and structure.
The Pessac-Léognan region enjoys a temperate maritime climate due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, with the gravel soils storing heat and promoting even grape ripening. Historically, Pessac-Léognan represents the cradle of Bordeaux fine wine, producing notable whites revered for their balance of richness and freshness. The combination of climate and soil is key to crafting whites capable of graceful ageing, such as this 2005 vintage.
This demi-sec white from Lagrave-Martillac would complement dishes that echo both its freshness and its touch of sweetness. Ideal pairings include seafood in creamy sauces, roast poultry with apricot or grape accents, or more exotic fare such as Thai green curry or duck à l’orange. Classic regional cuisine like fish à la bordelaise or a goat’s cheese salad would also highlight its structure and aromatic depth.
For the optimal tasting experience, serve this wine at 10-12°C. At this temperature, its subtle complexity, delicate fruit expression, and balanced sweetness will reveal themselves beautifully. Decanting for 30 minutes can help it express its fullest aromatic potential, especially for a vintage as mature as 2005.
