Read an article about: click - but before let you explain:
AOC Pomerol – A Prestigious but Unique Appellation
The Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) Pomerol is one of the most esteemed wine designations in Bordeaux, yet it stands apart in several respects.
1. Location & Terroir
- Situated on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, near Libourne, the Pomerol appellation covers about 800 hectares.
- The soils are highly varied: sandy-gravelly topsoils, clay-rich sections, and the famous “crasse de fer” (iron-rich subsoil), particularly around the plateau.
- These diverse soils give Pomerol wines their renowned depth, elegance, and age-worthiness.
2. Grape Varieties
- Merlot dominates (70–80%), thriving on the clay-rich soils and defining the appellation’s plush, velvety style.
- Cabernet Franc (locally known as Bouchet) is the key blending partner, bringing aromatic lift and structure.
- Small proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec may also appear.
3. Style of Wine
- Pomerol wines are full-bodied yet refined, often described as combining power with sensuality.
- Characterized by rich fruit (plum, blackberry, black cherry), fine tannins, and notes of truffle, violet, cocoa, and sometimes graphite.
- They age gracefully, with top estates capable of 20–30 years of evolution.
4. Classification
- Unlike Médoc and Saint-Émilion, Pomerol has no official classification system (no crus classés).
- Prestige is driven solely by reputation, terroir, and consistent quality of individual estates.
- This means small properties (often 5–20 hectares) stand on equal legal footing, allowing estates like Pétrus, Le Pin, Vieux Château Certan, Lafleur, and Trotanoy to build legendary status purely through excellence.
5. Regulatory Framework (AOC Rules)
As with all French AOCs, Pomerol follows strict guidelines under INAO:
- Defined geographic boundaries (delimited vineyards within Pomerol).
- Approved grape varieties, dominated by Merlot.
- Minimum planting densities (~5,500 vines per hectare).
- Maximum yields (typically around 49 hl/ha, though adjusted per vintage).
- Winemaking and ageing practices must respect regional tradition and quality standards.
In essence:
Pomerol is the only great Bordeaux appellation without an official classification, making it a meritocracy where terroir and craftsmanship speak louder than hierarchy. Its dominance of Merlot and tiny scale contribute to both its rarity and desirability, making it a jewel of the Right Bank.
Watch our Interview Series of people working in the industry abroad: click
See our information about Travelling the World: click
See Opportunities Here: click
Find the Right Sommelier - Post a job: click
*****
