# Château Pierhem (2018)

- **Producer:** Vignobles Pierre-Emmanuel Janoueix
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Merlot
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €33
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 17–17 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, black plum, red cherry, floral, mocha, coffee, chocolate, cedar, spice, vanilla, dried fruit, earth, leather

## About this wine

Château Pierhem 2018 is a 100% Merlot from the esteemed Pomerol appellation in Bordeaux, France. Produced by Vignobles Pierre-Emmanuel Janoueix, the estate is committed to sustainable practices, holding High Environmental Value certification. The vineyard spans 1.8 hectares with an average vine age of 60 years, planted in characteristic sandy-gravel soils rich in iron oxides ('crasse de fer'). This terroir, combined with the favorable conditions of the 2018 vintage, yields a wine celebrated for its depth and structure.

## Interesting facts

- Vines at Château Pierhem average 60 years old, contributing to concentrated fruit.
- The soil is characterized by 'crasse de fer', a unique iron-rich clay.
- The estate holds High Environmental Value certification.
- The 2018 vintage is noted for its richness and elegance.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-full body, ripe tannins, and rich fruit profile make it an excellent companion for protein-rich dishes. The tannins bind with the proteins in the meat, softening the wine and enhancing the savory flavors of the food. Its complex fruit and subtle oak notes complement the richness of dishes like duck or lamb.

## Wine making process

Château Pierhem's winemaking begins with hand-harvested and sorted Merlot grapes. Fermentation takes place in thermo-regulated stainless-steel tanks. A portion of the wine then undergoes malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels, with lees stirring ('batonnage') employed to enhance texture and complexity. The wine is subsequently aged for 16 to 18 months in French oak barrels from Bordeaux and Burgundy. The estate practices integrated viticulture and holds High Environmental Value certification, reflecting a commitment to sustainable winemaking.