The 2022 Marpaout from Chateau Branas Grand Poujeaux is a groundbreaking new wine, introduced in 2022 as a distinct, single-parcel expression. This wine is a rare 100% Merlot, sourced from a small 1.7-hectare plot on one of the estate's highest elevations, featuring iron-rich subsoil and a unique microclimate. It challenges Médoc's traditional Cabernet-centric approach, leading some to hail it as "Médoc's Answer to Pomerol". The wine is aged in a combination of barrels and terracotta amphora, with a very limited production of around 500 cases. The 2022 vintage for Bordeaux was surprisingly good despite a challenging growing season, and this is considered likely the best vintage ever made at the property. Marpaout 2022 displays a deep ruby garnet color with purple reflections. The nose offers fine precious wood savoriness, ripe heart cherries, liquorice, floral notes, and a hint of orange blossom. It's complex, juicy, and rich in ripe fruits, with notes of nougat, fine fruit sweetness, and finesse-rich acidity. The palate reveals dark soft berries, perfume, and floral notes, with succulent fruit, grip, and a seam of phenolic and wet stone freshness. Expect savory black fruits, power, and ripe tannins. The finish is long, mineral, and persistent, with cherries and nougat. Some critics note clear precision and flesh to the brambled fruit, firm tannins, blackberry and damson fruits, and a unique blue cheese and salted cracker salinity on the finish. 🥂 This wine shows excellent aging potential and is best enjoyed from 2026 through 2042. It needs some time to fully develop its character. 🍴 Marpaout 2022 is a versatile food wine, pairing well with beef and venison. It's best served with all types of classic meat dishes, including veal, pork, beef, lamb, duck, game, roast chicken, and various roasted, braised, and grilled preparations. It also makes a perfect match with Asian dishes, hearty fish courses like tuna, mushrooms, and pasta, as well as a wide array of both hard and soft cheeses. 【 A rare, single-varietal Merlot from Médoc, challenging tradition and hailed as "Médoc's Answer to Pomerol." 】