Château Nénin 2022

Château Nénin sits in the AOC of Pomerol on the right bank of Bordeaux, where the reds are built mainly on Merlot, here blended with Cabernet Franc. Pomerol's reputation rests on its soils, a mix of clay and gravel over a celebrated iron rich subsoil known as crasse de fer, which gives Merlot from this commune its density, its velvety texture and a distinctive savoury, mineral character. Merlot ripens early and supplies the wine's plush fruit and rounded body, while Cabernet Franc adds aromatic lift, freshness and a firmer tannic line. The wine is aged twelve months in oak barrels, which softens the tannins through slow oxygen exchange and contributes cedar, vanilla and spice while letting the fruit and earth integrate. These are wines made to be kept, often showing their best at around twelve years, though the fruit is generous enough to enjoy young. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows ripe plum, dark cherry and red berries over tobacco, earth and gentle oak. The palate is smooth, rich and full bodied, with fine tannins, balanced acidity and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting ahead, with roast beef, lamb, duck and mushroom dishes.