Wines Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Château Trianon - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Château Trianon 2018 is a classic example of a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru from the prestigious right bank of Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, which is the signature grape of the region, this red blend is typically rounded out with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and sometimes a touch of Carménère. The 2018 vintage was marked by a warm, dry summer following a rainy spring, resulting in ripe, expressive fruit and structured tannins. The terroir here is a mosaic of limestone and clay soils, which promote elegance, minerality, and age-worthy depth in the wine. In the cellar, Château Trianon practices careful extraction and maturation, often ageing their wines in French oak barrels to bring finesse, complexity, and a subtle hint of spice.

The Saint-Émilion region is one of Bordeaux’s most revered appellations, known for its undulating vineyards and mediaeval village perched on the limestone plateau. The maritime climate, tempered by the proximity to the Atlantic, fosters slow and even ripening of Merlot. Historical viticulture traces back to Roman times, and the modern emphasis is on sustainable, terroir-driven winemaking. The clay-limestone soils are particularly beneficial, retaining moisture during warm spells and contributing to the plush texture and fragrant bouquet characteristic of the area’s Grands Crus.

For food pairings, Château Trianon 2018’s ripe dark fruit, supple tannins, and nuanced oak make it an ideal companion for classic French fare. Roast lamb with garlic and rosemary, duck breast in a red wine sauce, or beef filet with wild mushrooms will all be elevated by its structure and depth. Regional dishes such as canard aux cèpes (duck with porcini mushrooms) or entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak in a red wine and shallot sauce) are particularly harmonious choices.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least one hour to allow its complex aromatics to unfold. Serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C; this will showcase its elegant fruit, refined tannins, and layered finish. The 2018 vintage is enjoyable now with aeration, but it also has excellent potential for further cellaring.