AOC Puisseguin Saint-émilion

History of the Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC

Located in the heart of the Bordeaux region, within the prestigious vineyard of Saint-Émilion, the Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC is part of the rich heritage of Bordeaux viticulture. Indeed, Saint-Émilion has been renowned since the Middle Ages for its exceptional wines. Puisseguin, on the other hand, owes its name to the Occitan term "Puy Seguin," referring to the hill of Seguin, a lieutenant of Charlemagne who is said to have settled in the region. The Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC is now one of the four satellites of the Saint-Émilion AOC, highlighting a specific terroir and a distinct identity.

Climate and Terroir of the Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC

• Climate: The appellation benefits from a temperate oceanic climate, bringing warm summers and mild winters. These conditions allow for optimal grape ripening.
• Soils: The clay-limestone and clay-siliceous soils of Puisseguin offer ideal conditions for the cultivation of Merlot, the flagship grape variety of the region.

Merlot and Cabernet Franc: the Grape Varieties of the Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC

Merlot is the dominant red grape variety (80% of the blend) of the Puisseguin Saint-Émilion appellation, bringing all its roundness and fruity profile. It is often complemented by Cabernet Franc, adding complexity, and sometimes by Cabernet Sauvignon, which provides structure and good aging potential to the red wines of the Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC.

Style of Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC Wine

• Appearance: The wines display a deep color, ranging from cherry red to intense purple with age.
• Nose: The aromatic palette is rich, with notes of red and black fruits, such as cherry, blackberry, and blackcurrant. Spicy, vanilla, or cocoa touches may appear after barrel aging. Some cuvées also develop complex notes of mint and undergrowth.
• Palate: Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC red wines are powerful, structured, and well-structured. The tannic presence, although pronounced in youth, softens with age to give way to a beautiful harmony and a silky texture on the palate.
• Serving Temperature: 16°-18°C
• Aging Potential: 5 to 15 years, depending on the estate and the vintage

Best Food Pairings with Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC Wine

Here are our recommendations to best accompany a bottle of Bordeaux red wine from a domaine or château in the Puisseguin Saint-Émilion AOC:

• Confit duck leg
• Stuffed cep mushrooms à la bordelaise
• Homemade shredded beef burger
• Lamb tagine with prunes