Château La Croix Saint Georges 2023

Château La Croix Saint Georges produces this red in Pomerol, on Bordeaux's right bank, from a blend led by Merlot with Cabernet Franc. Pomerol is defined by its clay soils over an iron-rich subsoil, the local crasse de fer, which suits Merlot and gives the wines their plush texture and dark-fruited depth. The vineyards are farmed organically. After fermentation the wine is aged twelve months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange through the wood softens and integrates the tannins while adding cocoa, vanilla and a cedar frame to the fruit. Cabernet Franc lifts the blend with aromatic freshness and a fine tannic line. The colour is deep ruby with a youthful purple rim. The nose shows ripe plum compote and dark fruits over tobacco, cocoa and a savoury, earthy note. On the palate the tannins are velvety and ripe, carrying generous black fruit, sweet spice and a long, structured finish. Young and intense now, it will reward a few years in bottle. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant ahead of pouring. It suits roast beef, lamb and game.