Chateau La Pointe Ballade de La Pointe Pomerol 2021 / 12.5% / 0.75 L

Château La Pointe, located in the prestigious Pomerol appellation on the right bank of the Dordogne in the Bordeaux region, is an estate with a rich tradition and a clear direction for growth.Built in the early 19th century (“from the mid-19th century,” according to some sources) — it began its history as a unique vineyard, distinguished by the unusual triangular shape of the plot, which gave the estate its name (“la pointe” means “tip” or “apex”).

Within the tiny, prestigious region of Pomerol, where vineyards typically cover 3–6 hectares, Château La Pointe spans as much as 23 hectares—making it one of the largest estates in the appellation.In the postwar years, the property belonged to the d’Arfeuille family (purchased in 1941).), and later in 2007.was sold to the insurance company Generali France.This change was followed by a thorough renovation of the infrastructure—modern refrigerated tanks, a vineyard divided into plots, and eco-friendly solutions in the cellars (solar panels, water recycling)—which significantly improved the quality of the wines.

The vineyard is located in the Pomerol subregion, near the Catusseau area of Libourne, with one plot situated close to a parcel belonging to the famous Château Trotanoy.The soils are a mixture of gravel, sandy loam, and gravelly loam, which ensures good drainage and allows the vines to thrive in the region’s microclimate.The vineyard has an average planting density of 6,300 to 7,600 vines per hectare—which is above the average for Bordeaux—and the average age of the vines is about 35 years.

In the winemaking process, there is a strong emphasis on reducing yields to achieve greater concentration—they aim for an average of approx..20 hl/ha (although typical yields are about.35 hl/ha) — which indicates a high level of selection.

Ballade de La Pointe - This is Château La Pointe’s second label—that is, a typical “second wine”—with the Pomerol appellation.Produced in 2021, primarily from Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc.The wines from this vintage were produced under exceptionally challenging conditions—spring frosts, a wet spring, and the need for very careful winemaking.The process involves fermentation in stainless steel tanks (80 hl), with the wine separated by vineyard parcel; malolactic fermentation takes place partly in barrels; and aging occurs almost entirely in 100% new French oak barrels for an average of 12 months.

Appearance: a deep ruby color with a garnet rim and an intense luster—in the glass, a dense layer and good “retention” of color are visible.

Aroma: opens with notes of red and black fruits—cherry, plum, black currant—transitioning into hints of cocoa, espresso, and slightly smoky spice, with violet and jasmine in the background.

Taste: Juicy fruits take center stage: red cherries and plums, with a delicate bitterness from the skins, followed by velvety tannins, subtle vanilla and chocolate, underpinned by minerality and a fresh finish—well-balanced, with a medium-full body and a long finish.

Food pairings: It pairs perfectly with meat dishes—roasted beef tenderloin, duck breasts with fruit sauce, game (e.g., venison)—as well as aged cheeses such as Comté or Gruyère.Grilled dishes—such as lamb and porcini mushrooms in cream sauce—will also highlight its fruity and spicy profile.