Chateau Potensac, Medoc 2018

Château Potensac, Médoc 2018: Tasting Notes and Food Pairing Delights

A Superb Médoc with Approachable Elegance

The 2018 Château Potensac offers a compelling expression of the Médoc terroir. Crafted under the discerning eye of Jean-Hubert Delon, this wine showcases a blend dominated by Merlot (45%), complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon (36%), Cabernet Franc (18%), and a touch of Petit Verdot (1%). The result is a well-structured red that is both approachable and possesses the potential to age gracefully.

Tasting Profile: A Symphony of Dark Fruit and Savoury Notes

Visually, the Château Potensac 2018 boasts a deep garnet colour, hinting at the richness that lies within. The first swirl of the glass releases a captivating bouquet of aromas. Ripe blackcurrants and juicy plums take centre stage, interwoven with hints of fresh red berries. Subtle herbal notes, reminiscent of black pepper and earth, add complexity to the fragrance.

As the wine caresses the palate, its full-bodied nature becomes evident. The dominant Merlot influence delivers a wave of smooth, velvety tannins. The dark fruit flavours from the nose translate beautifully, with a burst of cassis and black plum mingling with hints of earth and spice. The well-integrated oak influence (35% new oak) adds a touch of vanilla and toasty undertones, without overpowering the primary fruit character.

The finish of the Château Potensac 2018 is long and satisfying. The lingering notes of dark fruit and spice leave a lasting impression, urging another sip.

Food Pairing: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven

The Château Potensac 2018's versatility makes it a fantastic companion for a variety of dishes. Its full body and bold fruit flavours make it a natural pairing for red meat. Here are some delectable options to consider:

• Braised Beef: The rich, slow-cooked flavours of braised beef find perfect harmony with the depth and structure of the Château Potensac. The wine's tannins will cut through the richness of the meat, while the fruit characters complement the savoury notes of the dish.
• Pot Roast: Another hearty option, pot roast pairs beautifully with this Médoc red. The vegetables roasted alongside the meat add a touch of sweetness that balances the wine's fruit profile.
• Grilled Lamb: For a lighter red meat option, grilled lamb presents a delightful pairing. The smokiness from the grill complements the wine's earthy notes, while the lamb's inherent savouriness finds a perfect match in the wine's fruit and spice.

Beyond red meat, the Château Potensac 2018 can also hold its own against bolder vegetarian dishes. Consider:

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as portobello mushrooms, aubergines, and peppers, offers a vibrant and flavourful vegetarian option. The wine's earthiness and subtle smokiness from the oak ageing will beautifully complement the roasted vegetables.
• Strong Cheeses: For cheese lovers, the Château Potensac 2018 pairs well with mature and robust cheeses. Aged cheddar, Gruyère, or a strong Gouda will find a worthy match in the wine's tannins and bold fruit character.

Drinking Window: Enjoy Now or Cellar for Later

The Château Potensac 2018 is already drinking beautifully, offering a balanced and approachable expression. However, its well-structured tannins also suggest it has the potential to age gracefully. For those seeking a more developed character, cellaring this wine for up to a decade (until 2032) will allow the fruit notes to soften further, while the tannins become even more integrated.

In Conclusion: A Must-Try for Discerning Wine Enthusiasts

The Château Potensac 2018 represents a fantastic expression of Médoc terroir. It delivers a captivating combination of approachable elegance and the potential for further development. With its rich fruit character, smooth tannins, and versatility with food pairings, this wine is sure to impress discerning wine enthusiasts.

Order your bottle of Château Potensac 2018 today from The General Wine Company and embark on a delightful journey through the heart of Médoc.