Moueix Saint-Émilion 2022

Jean-Pierre Moueix, founded in 1937, is one of the leading houses of the Right Bank, and this Saint-Émilion reflects the elegant, balanced style the company looks for across its wines. The blend is 85 percent Merlot with 15 percent Cabernet Franc, grown on the appellation's classic mix of limestone and clay. The clay subsoil provides depth, richness and generosity to the Merlot, while the limestone gives freshness, lift and a fine mineral structure that keeps the wine balanced. Cabernet Franc adds aromatic detail and a firmer line of tannin. The wine is fermented and aged in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange rounds the tannins and adds a savoury, spiced frame without dominating the fruit. The result is an approachable yet structured Saint-Émilion. It is deep ruby in the glass, with aromas of red cherry, plum and redcurrant over damp earth, tobacco and cedar. The palate is medium to full bodied, the limestone showing as freshness against ripe, fine tannins, finishing clean and savoury. Serve at 17 degrees, decanted ahead, in a Bordeaux glass. It suits roast lamb, beef and pork.