Pomerol Wine Region

Pomerol, a distinguished wine appellation nestled on the right bank of the Dordogne River in Bordeaux, France, is known for producing exquisite red wines of remarkable depth and character. While Pomerol lacks a formal ranking system akin to the 1855 Classification in the Haut-Médoc or the tier structure of St. Émilion, this in no way diminishes the unparalleled quality of its chateaus. The absence of classifications has fostered a focus on individual winemaking prowess, resulting in Pomerol's distinct reputation for yielding some of the world's finest red wines.

Pomerol is a well-respected red wine appellation in the Bordela region of southwestern France. Currently, the most searched-for wine on our database is Paulus.

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History of the Pomerol Wine Region

The Pomerol region, as well as its northern border, the Barbanne river, was a historical cultural boundary born out of language between north Delphine and south where there existed distinctive linguistic patterns. Though it is difficult to pinpoint exactly when grapes were first planted in the Pomerol region, there is evidence to show viticulture in the area during the time of the Romans. There are many different theories surrounding when and where this wine region started its namesake. It is possible that it stems from the Latin word poma which refers to fruit-bearing seeds and the French word pomme meaning apple. The region's long history of polyculture with many other crops cultivated before viticulture became a primary focus.

In 1270, the English founded the city of Libourne, which may be one of many reasons as to why we can enjoy Pomerol wines today. However, Pomerol wines have always been less praised than other areas in Bordeaux like the Tarn-et-Garonne and Lot-et-Garonne. Due to its location near the major pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the area has historically attracted the interest of past Knights Hospitaller who are returning after their time on the Crusade. There are also many hostels and hospitals throughout the region as a result of this historical connection and/or more recent developments by medieval pilgrims. Some ancient vineyards are now made into modern wine producers. For example, Château Gazin was founded back in the 12th century. The Knights of the Templar remained in the region for centuries, even helping to replant vineyards that were devastated by the Hundred Years’ War.

The Terroir of Pomerol Wine Region

Pomerol is a beautiful French wine that is known for its plum and black cherry aromas. Unlike other prestigious communes in Bordeaux, it has no direct river access (being separated from the Dordogne to the south by the town and by Saint-Émilion). To the northeast, across a stream called la Barban.

The rich grey soils of the Pomerol region are scattered over a wider geographical area, with each area containing more gravel, sand, and clay. The soils to the north and east of this vineyard tend to have more clay, while the soils to the west and south are lighter and more gravelly. Pomerols is situated north of the Barbanne River and west of the Isle River. It is surrounded by Dordogne to the south and near Libourne. As we begin to descend the plateau and move towards the rivers, we see that the soils become less rocky and sandier.

The appellation is divided into three parts; The south, the west, and the east. On average, soil in the south and west is made up of more sand & clay compared to that in the east. The wines produced in Pomerol and Saint-Émilion are some of the world's most sought-after wines. These two areas lie in the northernmost part of Aquitaine, in France's central wine regions. Here three of the top Pomerol Châteaux – Pétrus, Lafleur, and Le Pin – are located.

Grape Varieties from Pomerol Wine Region

Ageing a Merlot wine is popular because it can be very easy for someone to drink in its youth and delicious, smooth and approachable at an early age. It also allows you to enjoy the wine for a longer period of time. Due to their structure, Pomerol wines are sought after internationally and are usually present in this wine. They also add a savoury spice per wine.

Merlot is an early-flowering variety that costs a lot. Since it needs lots of sunshine, it has its risks and also heavily impacts neighbouring Saint-Émilion at the same time. One major issue that Pomerol had in the early 90s was frost damage. Even though its viticulture has become much more centralized, this did not prevent the wine from becoming a success.

Food to Pair with Pomerol Wine

Magret de canard

Duck breast is aging into a staple on the world's menu, with many variations and applications. The oven-cooked tender meat that comes out perfect medium-rare had its ken in France by Chef Daguin in the 1950s. It is usually served thinly sliced and still slightly pink on the interior.

A cut of the Duck breast usually comes from the crossbreed between Peking and Muscovy ducks. This breed of duck is more popular than the others because it gives you an incredibly rich and succulent taste with the meat. In the 1960s, duck breast became popular in America thanks to Robert Daley who praised the speciality in a New York Times article. Today, chicken breast can be found on tables throughout France, both in restaurants and private homes.

Châteaubriand

Contrary to popular belief, the word Châteaubriand does not refer only to a cut of beef, but also to a method used to grill or roast a thick cut of beef tenderloin. A steak that was originally prepared by a chef named Montmireil in 1822 for Francois René Vicomte de Chateaubriand, an author of French, diplomat and statesman.

A traditional red wine sauce or Béarnaise sauce will typically accompany Châteaubriand when it's served in France, along with potatoes and fries. This dish is also frequently served with creamed spinach, but in France, it would almost certainly be accompanied by mashed potatoes.

Tournedos Rossini

a dish created in honor of the celebrated French composer Gioacchino Rossini, tournedos Rossini is a classic staple of French cuisine. The original recipe is rich, flavorful, and uses only the finest ingredients. It is topped off with crostini-like bread topped with slices of sautéed foie gras and black truffles.

Just before the dish is served, the sauce is then added for flavor and texture. The preferred wine for the sauce is a medium-dry Verdelho. The recommended drink to accompany this luxurious dish is a vintage red Bordeaux.

Places to visit in Pomerol Wine Region

Dune of Pilat

The world-famous Grande Dune du Pilat is the tallest sand dune in Europe. It is located in La Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Bay area, France. It is located nearby Bordeaux and there are flights available from France to Bordeaux daily. The Dune of Pilat is a popular tourist destination with 2 million visitors per year. It is a must-see spot for tourists in Catalonia.

In the 19th century, Saltpeter was an essential component needed for gunpowder and explosives. Dune du Pilat housed temporary camps for activities related to sea salt mining. Excavations of the ancient archaeological site started in 1922. In December 2013, a tourist discovered an urn and vase long-buried 800 years ago.

La Palmyre Zoo

This zoo is near Royan and in the southwest of France. Caillé discovered the first primate in the forest of la Coubre in 1966.

Around 1957, Patrick and Bruno traveled to France with their animal collection which started out as a small zoo for schools. In the 1960s, he decided to leave for Africa to capture animals. After a stay among Pygmies, he brought Gorillas and Chimpanzees back from Cameroon.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Pomerol Wine Region