Méditérranée

While the topography and architecture of Pomerol are modest, its wines are anything but. The finest vineyards lie on a band of rich clay running across the gently elevated Pomerol plateau from the border with Saint-Émilion. These clay soils give Pomerol wine its hallmark richness, depth and power. On the plateau’s edges, sandier soils produce lighter, more approachable styles.

Once considered overshadowed by Saint-Émilion, Pomerol rose to international prominence in the mid-20th century thanks largely to Jean-Pierre Moueix, whose efforts introduced its distinctive, fleshy wines to export markets. Limited production and growing demand have since driven prices sharply higher.

There is no formal classification of Pomerol wines, though the neighbouring Lalande-de-Pomerol to the north produces wines of a similar style, albeit usually with less finesse.