Viniou Reviews
Château Vieux Pourret 2023 is a red Bordeaux wine from the renowned Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation, a prestigious classification within the Le Libournais subregion. This wine, from the 2023 vintage, is most likely a blend dominated by Merlot, the flagship grape of Saint-Émilion, complemented by Cabernet Franc and occasionally small proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. The terroir of Vieux Pourret, typical of Saint-Émilion, showcases clay-limestone and sandy soils, which foster a balance between power and elegance in the resulting wines. The vinification process here is traditional: hand-harvesting, meticulous sorting, and fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, followed by élevage in oak barrels, a proportion of which are new, to bring complexity and subtle toasty notes to the final wine. The 2023 vintage promises freshness and vibrancy, thanks to favourable weather patterns that allowed steady ripening and optimal fruit expression.
The Saint-Émilion region, situated on the right bank of the Dordogne, enjoys a temperate maritime climate moderated by the river, with long, warm summers and gentle autumns that support slow, even maturation of grapes. The historic terroir, famed since Roman times, is rich in limestone plateaux, giving wines marked by refined tannins, floral aromatics, and nuanced mineral notes. Over centuries, generations of winemakers have shaped the identity of these Grand Cru wines, celebrated worldwide for their harmony and ageing potential.
Château Vieux Pourret 2023, with its medium to full body, supple tannins, and aromatic profile of ripe red and black fruits, violets, and a subtle hint of spice and toast from oak ageing, pairs beautifully with classic dishes of the region such as duck magret with a wine-based sauce, entrecôte bordelaise, or a richly flavoured lamb shoulder. It is also a fine match for grilled mushrooms, truffle risotto, or aged Comté and Saint-Nectaire cheeses, allowing the wine’s fruit and earthy notes to shine.
For optimal appreciation, decant the wine for at least an hour prior to serving to allow its aromas to unfurl. Serve it at a temperature between 16-18°C. This will enhance the freshness of the fruit, polish the tannins, and unlock the subtle layers of complexity characteristic of a young Saint-Émilion Grand Cru.
