Château de Pommard Volnay 2017

Marking the warmest year since 2008, the 2015 growing season set a record for early bloom. Drought conditions persisted, and rainfall was erratic, with most of the much-needed rain falling at the end of the previous year and supplemented by only a single storm in February, which was enough water to sustain the vines. Cooler conditions during flowering ultimately lead to a smaller number of berries on each cluster and lower than average yields. Warm summer months led to advanced veraison, which was followed by perfect ripening conditions. Harvest began on September 1 with short pauses; heat spells and continued warmth allowed for the berries to be steadily picked at their ideal maturity. The harvest was completed on October 8.

Initial dark fruit, spice and baking aromas in the 2015 Opus One are interwoven with seductive notes of violet, black tea, and sage. The entry is vibrant with ripe dark fruit flavors of plum, blackberry and blueberry followed by hints of vanilla and cocoa. Silky, fine-grained tannins provide structure and a creamy texture. The wine finishes with fresh acidity and a rich, lingering finish that promises longevity in the cellar.

Varietal : Cabernet Sauvignon 81%, Cabernet Franc 7%, Merlot 6%, Petit Verdot 4%, Malbec 2%

Vineyard:

• Varietals: 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 5% Cabernet
  Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
• Soils: deep bed of gravel on subsoil of clay and sandstone
• Size of the vineyard: 70 hectares
• Age of the vine: 15-20 years
• Planting density: 8 000 – 10 000 vines / ha
• Average Yield: 45-50 hl/ha
• Harvest: by hand

Vinification: fermented in stainless steel and concrete temperature-controlled vats at 30°C. The vatting lasts between 20 and 25 days.

Ageing: 14 months (75 % in 12 months barrels previously used for Ch. Beychevelle and 25% in new oak)

Bottling: at the chateau

Tasting Notes: Soft, elegant and fruity with excellent depth and breed. With Amiral, the objective is to make a wine which can be drunk earlier than the Grand Vin (with more Merlot). Ideally consumed after 3-7 years of ageing.

Food Pairing: This wine will perfectly accompany flavourful (red or white) meat dishes such as grilled lamb chops, braised shanks and meat stews. Also harmonious with most cheeses like Gruyère, Comté, Cantal, Reblochon, Beaufort … (avoid Roquefort and arguably Camembert). And of course, will also easily and gracefully accompany more simpler dishes like pizza and/or most barbecued foods.

Wine Spectator: Amiral de Beychevelle 2010 (90pts) Offers a juicy feel, offering a lightly roasted cedar frame to the dark plum, blueberry and blackberry fruit flavours, with a ganache-coated finish. Approachable now, but no need to hurry. Best from 2014 through 2024. – James Molesworth