Château La Louvière 2022

Château La Louvière sits in Pessac-Léognan in the Graves, south of the city of Bordeaux, an estate revived by André Lurton, who was a leading voice for the appellation. The wine blends Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon. The Graves takes its name from its deep gravel and sand soils, which drain freely, hold warmth and give the reds their fine tannin and a savoury, smoky character. The maritime climate is moderated by the Atlantic and the river, which extends the growing season for even ripening. The wine ages 12 months in oak barrels, where gradual oxygen exchange through the wood firms the structure and folds in cedar and gentle spice. The colour is deep, concentrated ruby. The nose offers ripe black fruit with violet, a lift of mint and liquorice and a touch of oak spice. The palate is meaty, well balanced and medium to full bodied, with fine tannin, fresh acidity and an earthy finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, and decant an hour or two ahead for a young vintage. It suits roast lamb and game.