With origins dating back to 1770, this almost mythical wine is recognised for its constituency of style and quality. This celebrated Pomerol estate was originally under the label of “Petrus-Arnaud” acknowledging the original owners, although the origin of the allusion to St Peter is unknown. At the end of the 19th century, Petrus was recognised as one of the best crus in Pomerol, and sold at the same price as 2eme Crus from the Médoc. After a couple of changes of ownership, in 1945 Jean-Pierre Moueix was granted exclusive commercialisation rights, working with the owner to transform the reputation of the wine, bringing its market price up to the same level as the 1er Grands Crus. In 1969, the Moueix family bought the property outright, as well as an additional four hectare of land from Château Gazin significantly increasing the estate’s size. Jean-Francois Moueix is the actual owner.
The estate’s 11ha of Merlot vines are situated on the top of the plateau de Pomerol. The vines benefit from the “argile bleue” soil which offers unique drainage properties which are optimal for Merlot. An average yield might offer 2,500 cases.
All grapes are picked in the afternoon only, once the morning dew has evaporated, avoiding any chance of dilution. The grapes are fermented in cement vats, with maceration lasting normally between 15 and 21 days to ensure no over-extraction. Once fermentation is complete, the wine is then aged in French oak barrels for 22-28 months.
1979 was a notably large harvest, due to good weather during flowering, followed by a dry but cool summer. A warm September helped the ripening. Generally lighter style wines, but the best has good tannic structure and a fine acidity which has enabled long term ageing.
Fully mature with hints of mellow old fruit, the wine is still balanced and harmonious. Notable for its fine structure.
A great match with beef, lamb and game.
Serve at room temperature (15ᵒc – 18ᵒc)
AOC Pomerol, Bordeaux
100% Merlot
Natural cork
13%