Wines Saint-Estèphe Château Pez - 2003

Viniou Reviews

The Château Pez 2003 from the Saint-Estèphe AOC in the renowned Bordeaux region of France is a distinguished red wine. Saint-Estèphe is celebrated for its full-bodied and robust wines, and 2003 was marked by a particularly hot summer, influencing the ripe, opulent nature of this vintage. This wine, likely a blend typical of Bordeaux, probably includes Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and possibly Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc, though it is not specified. The terroir of Saint-Estèphe is characterised by its gravelly soil, which provides excellent drainage, fostering rich, concentrated flavours in the grapes.

The Bordeaux region, especially the Médoc where Saint-Estèphe is located, boasts a maritime climate tempered by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The gravel soils here, coupled with clay and limestone, enhance the region's capability of producing wines with strong tannic structures and significant ageing potential. St. Estèphe’s wines are known for their robustness and earthy undertones, which age gracefully over the years. Historically, the Médoc has been at the heart of the Bordeaux wine trade for centuries, with estates like Château Pez contributing to its venerable reputation.

When considering food pairings, a wine from Saint-Estèphe typically echoes its powerful and structured nature. This 2003 edition of Château Pez would pair beautifully with hearty dishes such as a classic boeuf bourguignon, roast lamb with rosemary, or even a rich duck confit. The earthy and tannic profile of this wine makes it particularly suited to French dishes that incorporate rich sauces or umami flavours.

For optimal enjoyment, it is advised to serve this wine at a temperature between 16-18°C. Decanting it for at least an hour before serving will allow the wine to open up, releasing its complex bouquet of tertiary aromas that have developed over time, enhancing the tasting experience.