Chateau Monregard La Croix Pomerol 2018

Château Monregard La Croix Pomerol 2018: A Savourful Exploration

A Merlot Masterpiece from the Heart of Pomerol

The 2018 Château Monregard La Croix Pomerol is a captivating expression of Merlot from the prestigious Pomerol appellation in Bordeaux. Owned by the Audy-Bourrotte family since the 1920s, this estate crafts exceptional wines renowned for their elegance and finesse.

Vineyard and Vinification

Nestled on a unique plateau within Pomerol, Château Monregard La Croix boasts a 1.3-hectare vineyard. Here, vines flourish on a singular plot of ancient, sandy soil, surrounded by the region's characteristic clay. This specific terroir contributes to the wine's distinctive profile, uplifting the aromatic intensity of the Merlot grapes and lending a touch of finesse to the tannins.

Méticulous attention to detail is paramount throughout the winemaking process. The Château employs canopy management techniques to optimise grape development, followed by meticulous hand-harvesting in small crates. Rigorous sorting ensures only the finest fruit reaches the fermentation tanks.

Fermentation and maceration occur in temperature-controlled vats and cement tanks for a month. Gentle pump-overs and punchdowns extract colour and flavour from the skins, while a pneumatic press ensures delicate handling of the grapes. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barrel, further softening the wine's structure. Finally, the Château ages the wine for 18 months in fine-grained French oak barrels, with 30% being new oak for a touch of spice and toasty character.

Tasting Profile: A Symphony of Dark Fruit and Earth

The 2018 Château Monregard La Croix Pomerol beguiles the senses with a deep, almost inky, purple colour. On the nose, a captivating bouquet unfolds, bursting with aromas of ripe black plum, juicy blueberry, and hints of blackcurrant. Intricate layers of earth and spice emerge alongside subtle suggestions of cocoa and liquorice, adding complexity to the profile.

The palate is equally impressive, showcasing a core of rich, dark fruit flavours that mirror the nose. The tannins are surprisingly supple and approachable, thanks to the unique sandy soils and meticulous winemaking techniques. Hints of earth and spice linger on the finish, creating a long and satisfying conclusion.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Château Monregard La Croix Pomerol 2018 is a versatile food pairing companion. Its full-bodied character and bold fruit flavours make it a perfect match for a variety of hearty dishes. Here are some suggested pairings to elevate your culinary experience:

• Rich Meat Dishes: Roast lamb, grilled steak, beef bourguignon, or venison casserole would all be exceptional accompaniments. The wine's robust tannins can stand up to the richness of the meat, while the fruit notes complement savoury flavours.
• Hearty Poultry: Consider pairing this Merlot with roast chicken with rosemary and garlic, duck à l'orange, or game bird dishes. The wine's depth can balance the richness of the poultry, while its plummy fruit character enhances the overall flavour profile.
• Mushroom Delights: Earthy mushrooms share a beautiful synergy with this Pomerol. Pair it with mushroom risotto, tagliatelle with truffle sauce, or a hearty mushroom and lentil stew. The earthy characteristics of the wine will resonate with the earthiness of the mushrooms, creating a harmonious pairing.

Serving Suggestions

To fully appreciate the nuances of this Château Monregard La Croix Pomerol 2018, decanting for 30-60 minutes is recommended. This allows the wine to breathe, softening the tannins and releasing its full aromatic potential. Serve at a cool room temperature of 16-18°C for optimal enjoyment.

Conclusion: A Must-Try for Merlot Enthusiasts

The 2018 Château Monregard La Croix Pomerol is a prime example of the exceptional quality wines produced in Pomerol. With its expressive bouquet, captivating fruit core, and approachable tannins, this Merlot is a delight for wine lovers of all levels. Its versatility with food makes it a perfect choice for a special occasion dinner or a casual evening with friends.

Explore the Finesse of Pomerol at The General Wine

At The General Wine, we are passionate about bringing you the finest wines from around the world. The 2018 Château Monregard La Croix Pomerol is a welcome addition to our collection, offering a taste of Pomerol's unique terroir.  Browse our website or visit our store to discover this exquisite Merlot and explore our extensive selection of wines to find your perfect match.