Wines Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Château Larmande - 1988

Château Larmande 1988 is a distinguished red wine hailing from the famous Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation on Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, this vintage reflects the delicate charm and complexity that define the region. The 1988 vintage was marked by an early harvest and ideal ripening conditions, resulting in structured yet elegant wines. The clay-limestone soils of Château Larmande bring depth and freshness to the blend, while traditional vinification in temperature-controlled vats and careful ageing in French oak barrels have imbued the wine with subtle tertiary aromas. With several decades of ageing, this wine reveals notes of dried cherry, leather, truffle, and cigar box, underpinned by silky tannins and a graceful, lingering finish.

Saint-Émilion itself is celebrated for its unique terroir, characterised by varied soils—ranging from rich clay to gravel and limestone—that contribute profound minerality and structure to the wines. The region enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, which favours steady grape maturation and helps retain freshness in the finished wines. With a winemaking history dating back to Roman times, Saint-Émilion is steeped in tradition, and its inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage site attests to its enduring significance.

The mature elegance of Château Larmande 1988 pairs beautifully with refined dishes. Classic French fare such as tournedos Rossini, roast duck with cherries, or a truffle-infused mushroom risotto will highlight its earthy undertones. For a more regional touch, try it with entrecôte à la bordelaise or simply alongside ripe, hard cheeses like Comté or aged Gruyère.

To best enjoy this vintage, decant gently to separate any sediment and allow the aromas to unfold. Serve at a temperature of 17-18°C. Given its advanced age, the wine is best appreciated within a few hours of opening, allowing the grace of its maturity to fully express itself in the glass.