Pomerol French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Pomerol is a tiny but world-famous Bordeaux appellation, home to some of the most sought-after red wines on earth, known for their opulent, velvety Merlot.
More info about Pomerol
Geographic position
Southwestern France, on Bordeaux's Right Bank in the Gironde, just northeast of Libourne and west of Saint-Émilion, on a gentle plateau covering about 2,000 acres.
Origin & history
The Romans planted vines here, and in the Middle Ages the Knights Hospitaller of Saint John built a commandery for pilgrims on the way to Santiago de Compostela. Long overlooked, Pomerol rose to fame in the 20th century; the AOC was created in 1936. Unusually, Pomerol has no official classification.
Wines & grape varieties
Red wine only, dominated by Merlot (about 80%) with Cabernet Franc and a little Cabernet Sauvignon. Expect plum, black cherry, truffle, violet and silky, rich texture.
Climate & soil
Temperate oceanic climate. Gravel and sand over clay, with a famous seam of blue clay at the heart of the plateau and iron-rich subsoil called "crasse de fer".
Wine region: Bordeaux
Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot