Among the discreet yet indispensable emblems of the Médoc, the Château de Pez 2013, in Saint-Estèphe AOP, asserts a characterful signature within an aesthetic of rare elegance. Heir to an age-old terroir and a tradition patiently handed down since the 15th century, this Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel captivates with its depth, precise tannic structure and aromatic palette where Bordeaux classicism is adorned with contemporary grace. A vintage of controlled delicacy, 2013 favours harmony, freshness and length, offering a red that is both flavoursome and impeccably poised at the table. The single-estate property of around 38 hectares, guided since 1995 by the Champagne house Louis Roederer, applies demanding selection and élevage practices aimed at fruit purity, structural balance and the truest expression of Saint-Estèphe. Here, nothing is showy; everything is about restraint, texture and accuracy, for a tasting moment that celebrates the French art of living.

Blend and winemaking

This Bordeaux red fits the noble Médoc blend, bringing together Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Each grape variety plays its part with restraint: Cabernet provides uprightness and backbone, Merlot brings roundness and softness, Cabernet Franc contributes aromatic drive, and Petit Verdot adds spicy depth. The estate's approach prioritises precise ripeness and gentle extraction to preserve fruit brightness and silky tannins. Under the oversight of the house Louis Roederer, renowned for its attention to detail, ageing is conducted with constant care to refine the framework without overloading it. The result in the 2013 vintage is a wine of admirable balance, where Médoc structure meets a generous, clearly readable aromatic expression.

Tasting notes

• Colour : Dark and deep, edged with garnet highlights. Clarity and brightness announce concentrated, well-developed material, a promise of a velvety mouthfeel and harmonious evolution in the glass.
• Nose : Complex and noble, with notes of delicate leather, ripe red fruits and liquorice. With aeration, nuances of black berries, undergrowth and a touch of sweet spice emerge, lending depth and distinction.
• Palate : Supple, enveloping attack, a cashmere texture carried by finely integrated tannins. The framework unfurls notes of liquorice, hazelnut, blackberry and strawberry, extended by a long, straight and balanced finish with attractive savouriness.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve around 16°C in large glasses to encourage aeration and reveal the complexity of the bouquet. Open the bottle a little before serving to allow the wine time to open up and gain breadth. To preserve its potential, store bottles away from light, lying down in a cool, consistent cellar. The 2013 vintage is suited to cellaring for 6 to 12 years, allowing tannins to integrate further and tertiary aromas to develop in nobility without losing the freshness that defines its identity.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs : selection of fine charcuterie such as coppa and bresaola, or slices of black tapenade on toast for a salty counterpoint that highlights the wine's poise.
• Starters : country terrine with herbs, beef carpaccio, slow-cooked egg with mushrooms, which respond to the aromatic depth with a play of delicate textures.
• Main courses : pink rack of lamb with herb crust, roast beef with jus, grilled duck breast, where noble meats and the tannic frame pair together in an unmistakably satisfying way.
• Cheeses : aged Comté, farmhouse Saint-Nectaire, sheep's tomme, which call for the palate's softness and extend the finish with lovely persistence.
• Desserts : choose lightly sweet options, such as spiced poached pear or a dark chocolate fondant, for a measured dialogue with the wine's structure.

Tasting occasions

Château de Pez 2013 is the ideal companion:

• For an insider dinner where balance, pedigree and unpretentious aromatic conversation are sought.
• At a Sunday lunch centred on a cut of beef or spring lamb, served with simplicity and precision.
• As a connoisseur's gift, celebrating a Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel with a centuries-old history and timeless elegance.

Characteristics

• Name : Château de Pez 2013, Saint-Estèphe AOP
• Appellation : Saint-Estèphe AOP
• Type : Red wine
• Vintage : 2013
• Grape varieties : Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Alcohol : not disclosed
• Ageing : information not disclosed for this vintage
• Volume : 75 cl
• Cellaring : 6 to 12 years
• Serving temperature : 16°C