The appellation of Lalande de Pomerol is on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, about 19 miles east of the city and just north of Pomerol. The vineyards are predominately planted to Merlot. Given their proximity to Pomerol, their style can be similar to their neighbor, but are more value-driven in pricing. Chateau de Chambrun was founded in the 1800’s and sold several times through the decades. Swiss businessman Silvio Denz acquired the property in 2007 and increased the property size to 81.5 acres. In 2015, Chateau De Chambrun was purchased by Patrick and Sylvie Javanaud. The vineyards are separated into 53 different blocks on sub-soils of limestone, clay and gravel.

This vineyard is planted to 60% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 18 months in French Oak (70% new). The opaque color opens with aromas of cassis and wet earth. Within this smooth, deeply textured wine is a generous offering of wild blueberries, black plums and herbs encased in a layer of melted Dutch Chocolate. The silky texture and well-balanced style of this Pomerol makes it impossible to resist. This Merlot offers everything you could ask for at this price point and more. If all Merlot tasted like this, I would opt for Merlot wherever I go.

By W Peter Hoyne