2006 Belle Brise

This is absolutely textbook Pomerol from Belle-Brise in 2006. The nose is lovely, with opulent fruit, while the palate is smooth and velvety, the tannins gorgeously polymerized. It’s still fruit-forward but really delicious. A delightful wine.

Pomerol is rarely described as ethereal and delicate. But the wines of Ch. Belle-Brise share as much with Burgundy as they do with Bordeaux – offering a finesse and agility that defies expectation. This Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend from 70-year-old vines grown on Pomerol’s distinct crasse de fer soils is a unique wine for the appellation. Translucent, brick-red in colour, this Pomerol is already well into its mid-life and showing beautifully at 14 years of age. The complex nose is a mix of savoury, tertiary aromatics, light spice, earthy black plum and dried berry notes. There is also a hint of smoky lapsang tea along with a ferrous mineral character. Medium-bodied on the palate and moderate in structure, the tannins are totally integrated. This is Pomerol but not as we know it – elegant, delicate even, and ready to drink.