Day 17 | Lalande-de-Pomerol AOC

Pomerol’s Charming Neighbor

Lalande-de-Pomerol, located just north of the famed Pomerol AOC, offers a softer and more approachable interpretation of the Right Bank style. Known for its Merlot-dominant blends, Lalande-de-Pomerol produces wines that are rich in fruit but slightly lighter and more accessible than the powerful wines of its prestigious neighbor. The region’s diverse soils, which include gravel, clay, and sand, allow for a range of expressions, making Lalande-de-Pomerol an excellent choice for Bordeaux lovers seeking value without sacrificing quality.

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Primary Grape Varieties

• Merlot Dominates the blends, providing ripe fruit, soft tannins, and a plush texture.

• Cabernet Franc Adds structure, freshness, and spice, balancing Merlot’s richness.

• Cabernet Sauvignon Occasionally used in small amounts for added tannic strength and depth.

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What Makes Lalande-de-Pomerol Special

• Accessible Style
  Lalande-de-Pomerol wines are typically more approachable in their youth compared to Pomerol, offering softer tannins and a fresh, fruit-driven character. They are known for their charm and drinkability while retaining enough complexity to satisfy more experienced palates.

• Diverse Terroir
  The soils in Lalande-de-Pomerol vary widely, with gravel providing structure, clay contributing to richness, and sandy areas adding finesse. This diversity allows winemakers to craft wines with a balance of power and elegance, showcasing the best of the Right Bank style.

• Value-Driven Quality
  While Pomerol wines often command premium prices, Lalande-de-Pomerol delivers high-quality wines at a fraction of the cost. This makes the appellation an excellent option for those exploring Bordeaux without the hefty price tag.

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Tasting Notes for Blind Tasting

Lalande-de-Pomerol wines often feature flavors of plum, red cherry, and blackberry, with hints of spice, herbs, and earth. They tend to have a medium to full body, soft tannins, and a smooth, balanced finish, often with a touch of minerality.

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Quiz Time

• How does the terroir of Lalande-de-Pomerol influence the style of its wines?

• What makes Lalande-de-Pomerol an appealing alternative to Pomerol?

Test your Bordeaux knowledge with this free downloadable PDF: Bordeaux Quiz Time Review Pack.

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Premium Subscriber Content: Exploring Lalande-de-Pomerol’s Terroir and Style

Terroir Insights
Lalande-de-Pomerol’s terroir is diverse, with significant contributions from gravel, clay, and sandy soils. Gravelly areas promote drainage and concentration, particularly benefiting Cabernet Franc, while clay retains moisture, supporting Merlot’s ripeness and depth.