Wines Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Maison Carles Clos La Rose - 2018

Maison Carles Clos La Rose 2018 hails from the prestigious Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOC within Bordeaux's renowned Le Libournais subregion. This red wine is primarily crafted from Merlot, the dominant variety in Saint-Émilion, frequently supported by Cabernet Franc and sometimes a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2018 vintage was marked by a warm, sunny summer following a damp spring, ensuring excellent ripeness and concentration, with well-structured tannins and expressive fruit. Vinification in this appellation tends to respect both tradition and precision, with careful sorting, temperature-controlled fermentation, and often ageing in French oak barrels for enhanced complexity and suppleness.

Saint-Émilion is a region with deep historical roots, its medieval town perched on a limestone plateau. The diverse soils—ranging from clay-limestone and sandy hillsides to gravel terraces—impart distinct character to the wines, often marrying power with elegance. Bordeaux's moderate maritime climate is shaped by the proximity of the Dordogne River and the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, providing a long, even ripening season. This supports the characteristic richness and aromatic finesse found in the appellation's grand crus, like Clos La Rose.

For pairings, the supple yet structured style of Maison Carles Clos La Rose 2018 suits a wide array of dishes. Classic regional matches would include entrecôte à la bordelaise or duck breast in red wine sauce. It also complements veal blanquette, lamb shank confit, and earthy mushroom risotto. The wine's plush tannins and ripe berry notes pair gracefully with aged Comté or Saint-Nectaire cheeses.

Serve this wine at 16-18°C, ideally decanted for an hour to reveal its layers of black fruit, subtle oak, and fine spice. This will allow the aromatic complexity and velvety mouthfeel to shine, offering an elegant expression of the Saint-Émilion terroir both now and over the next few years.