Pomerol
Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, 33500
One of the most esteemed appellations of the Bordeaux region’s Right Bank, Pomerol is known for its red wines, which are made primarily with Merlot. Located between the city of Libourne and the celebrated Saint-Émilion, Pomerol is home to upwards of 140 wineries, including the world-renowned Château Pétrus.
The basics
The smallest appellation in the greater Bordeaux wine-making region, little Pomerol nevertheless has an outsize reputation. Its viticultural history dates back to Roman times, and it was once known for its white wines. Today, however, the region is celebrated for its world-class, Merlot-based wines, which are sometimes blended with Cabernet Franc, Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Day trips from Bordeaux offer an indulgent way to explore Pomerol’s many wineries and enjoy tasting sessions. Many itineraries also pair Pomerol trips with visits to Saint-Émilion, so you can make the most of your Right Bank excursions.
Things to know before you go
- Though Pomerol doesn’t have a ranking system like other Bordeaux appellations, Château Pétrus, Château Le Pin, and Château Lafleur are considered top highlights.
- Pomerol’s estates offer an appealingly rustic alternative to the major Left Bank châteaus, although many don’t offer on-site tasting facilities.
- Careful with your wallet: wine from Pomerol is favored by collectors around the world, and bottles from châteaus like Pétrus and Le Pin are some of the world’s priciest.
How to get there
Pomerol is located just a 10-minute drive from both Saint-Émilion and Libourne. If traveling from Bordeaux, it’s less than an hour’s drive via the N89. Alternatively, guided tours offer a seamless way to explore the appellation.
When to get there
Harvest season, which typically occurs in September, is the busiest time of year, and offers the chance to see the vineyards in action. If planning to visit individual châteaus, be sure to research their hours in advance: they may vary greatly, and many don’t offer public tasting facilities.
Approach to Winemaking
Though it spans just 1,830 acres (740 hectares), Pomerol features a variety of soil types, and the best vineyards sit atop its blue clay. The area produces wines of real complexity and character that are considered a halfway point between the lush, fruit-led styles of Saint-Émilion and the more austere wines of the Médoc, on Bordeaux’s Left Bank.
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