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Lalande de Pomerol wines
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- Bottle (75cl)
- 29.90€ / bottleTASTING NOTES
Wine Advocate
90
J. Robinson
16,5
J. Suckling
90
Specifications
The Wines of Lalande de Pomerol: An Appellation of Bordeaux Excellence
Lalande de Pomerol is a prestigious wine appellation located on the Right Bank of the Dordogne River, in the Libournais region at the heart of Bordeaux. Close to its famous neighbors Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, this appellation is distinguished by its rich and powerful wines, dominated by the Merlot grape variety. In this article, we will explore in detail the specificities of Lalande de Pomerol, its unique terroir, its grape varieties, its winemaking techniques, and the emblematic wine estates of the region.
A Unique Terroir
Lalande de Pomerol benefits from an exceptional terroir, characterized by varied soils that contribute to the richness and diversity of its wines. The terroir of Lalande de Pomerol is mainly composed of gravelly, clayey, and sandy soils, with deposits of iron locally called "crasse de fer." These soils offer excellent drainage capacity, allowing the vines to thrive even after episodes of heavy rain.
The region's climate is temperate oceanic, with hot summers and mild winters. The proximity of the Dordogne River plays a crucial role in moderating extreme temperatures and providing regular humidity favorable to vine growth. These climatic and geological conditions allow Merlot to fully express itself, yielding wines with fruity aromas and a balanced tannic structure.
The Grape Varieties of Lalande de Pomerol
Merlot
Merlot is the dominant grape variety in Lalande de Pomerol, representing about 75% of plantings. This grape is particularly well-suited to the clayey and gravelly soils of the appellation. It produces wines rich in aromas of red and black fruits, such as cherry, raspberry, and blackcurrant, with a supple texture and silky tannins. Merlot imparts depth and characteristic roundness to the wines of Lalande de Pomerol, appealing to many wine lovers around the world.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc, often used to complement Merlot, represents about 20% of Lalande de Pomerol's vineyards. This grape brings a firmer tannic structure and aromas of green pepper, raspberry, and spices. It also contributes to the longevity of the wines, allowing them to age harmoniously in the bottle.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec
Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec are used more marginally, each representing about 5% of plantings. Cabernet Sauvignon brings aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, and menthol, as well as a robust tannic structure. Malbec, on the other hand, adds notes of plum and violet, with a touch of rusticity. Although minor, these grape varieties play an essential role in the blending of wines, adding complexity and aromatic diversity.
Winemaking Techniques
Winemaking in Lalande de Pomerol combines traditional methods and modern technologies to produce high-quality wines. Harvesting is often done by hand to ensure meticulous selection of grapes. After harvest, the clusters are destemmed and crushed before being placed in vats for fermentation.
Fermentation
Alcoholic fermentation generally takes place in stainless steel or concrete vats under temperature control, to preserve fruity aromas and ensure optimal extraction of tannins and anthocyanins. This stage lasts about one to three weeks, during which the must is regularly pumped over or punched down to promote contact between skins and juice.
Aging
After alcoholic fermentation, the wines undergo malolactic fermentation, transforming malic acid into lactic acid, which softens the wine's taste profile. The wines are then aged in oak barrels, new or used, for a period of 12 to 18 months. Aging in oak brings notes of vanilla, toast, and spices, while softening tannins and stabilizing color.
Emblematic Estates of Lalande de Pomerol
Château La Fleur de Boüard
Château La Fleur de Boüard is a renowned wine estate founded by Hubert de Boüard de Laforest, also co-owner of the famous Château Angélus in Saint-Émilion. Located in the heart of Lalande de Pomerol, this estate produces wines of great finesse and remarkable complexity. The vineyard extends over about 25 hectares, planted mainly with Merlot, with a small proportion of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The wines of Château La Fleur de Boüard are distinguished by their elegance, intense aromas of red and black fruits, and velvety tannins. Attention to every stage of winemaking and aging ensures consistent quality and impressive aging potential.
Château Siaurac
Château Siaurac is another prestigious estate in Lalande de Pomerol, with a history dating back to the 18th century. The vineyard covers about 46 hectares, mainly planted with Merlot, along with parcels of Cabernet Franc and Malbec. The estate is known for its generous, expressive, and well-balanced wines that perfectly reflect the terroir of Lalande de Pomerol.
The wines of Château Siaurac offer a rich aromatic palette, with notes of ripe fruits, cocoa, and spices, supported by a harmonious tannic structure. Their aging potential allows enthusiasts to enjoy them young or after several years of cellaring.
Château Tournefeuille
Château Tournefeuille is a family-owned estate in Lalande de Pomerol, situated on a hill offering a panoramic view of the Dordogne valley. The vineyard extends over about 18 hectares, with a majority of Merlot and a significant proportion of Cabernet Franc. The estate is renowned for its environmentally friendly viticultural practices, aiming to produce authentic and high-quality wines.
The wines of Château Tournefeuille are characterized by their freshness, fruity and floral aromas, and silky texture. The care given to vine cultivation and winemaking reveals all the richness and diversity of the Lalande de Pomerol terroir.
The Impact of Merlot on Lalande de Pomerol Wines
Merlot is undeniably the king grape of Lalande de Pomerol. Its ability to adapt to the clayey and gravelly soils of the appellation makes it a preferred choice for winegrowers. Merlot brings to Lalande de Pomerol wines a generous aromatic palette dominated by notes of red and black fruits, such as cherry, blackberry, and prune. These aromas are often complemented by hints of chocolate, coffee, and spices developed during oak barrel aging.
Structure and Texture
Beyond its aromatic qualities, Merlot gives Lalande de Pomerol wines a soft and silky tannic structure. Merlot tannins are generally more supple and less astringent than those of Cabernet Sauvignon, making the wines more accessible in their youth. However, the best crus of Lalande de Pomerol can also age for several decades, developing additional complexity and subtle tertiary aromas.
A Harmonious Balance
The balance between acidity, alcohol, and tannins is a key characteristic of Lalande de Pomerol wines. Merlot, with its moderate acidity and relatively high alcohol content, allows the creation of well-balanced wines, neither too heavy nor too light. This balance, combined with aromatic richness and velvety texture, makes Lalande de Pomerol wines a choice appreciated by both amateurs and connoisseurs.
Reputation and International Recognition
Lalande de Pomerol wines have made a place for themselves on the international wine scene thanks to their consistent quality and typicity. Although less publicized than its prestigious neighbor Pomerol, the Lalande de Pomerol appellation enjoys growing recognition from critics and consumers alike.
Distinctions and Awards
Many estates in Lalande de Pomerol have been awarded medals and distinctions in national and international competitions. Wine critics, such as Robert Parker and Wine Spectator, have often praised the quality of Lalande de Pomerol wines, highlighting their advantageous quality-price ratio compared to other Bordeaux appellations.
Commercial Success
Commercially, Lalande de Pomerol wines are experiencing growing success both in the French market and abroad. The American, British, and Asian markets, in particular, show increasing interest in these wines, attracted by their fruity character and accessibility. Online sales and virtual tastings have also contributed to increasing the notoriety and demand for Lalande de Pomerol wines.
Conclusion
Lalande de Pomerol is an appellation that perfectly embodies the excellence and diversity of Bordeaux wines. Thanks to its unique terroir, dominated by clayey and gravelly soils, and the predominance of the Merlot grape variety, this region produces rich, powerful, and balanced wines. The wine estates of Lalande de Pomerol, such as Château La Fleur de Boüard, Château Siaurac, and Château Tournefeuille, are ambassadors of this quality, offering crus that appeal to amateurs and connoisseurs worldwide.
The reputation of Lalande de Pomerol continues to grow, driven by international recognition and commercial success. Whether for tasting young or after several years of aging, Lalande de Pomerol wines promise an exceptional gustatory experience, marked by aromatic richness, finesse of tannins, and harmonious balance. For wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic and refined Bordeaux appellation, Lalande de Pomerol is an essential destination.