A Médoc and Graves AOC
The Pessac-Léognan appellation was created in Southern Bordeaux in 1987, surrounded by the expansion of the city. Produced on the choicest terroirs laced with smooth Garonne river stones (called graves) carried down from the Pyrenees, these wines are powerful and complex. They triumphed over existing appellations, such as the 16 growths designated in 1959. Pessac-Léognan’s whites are made from Sauvignon and Semillon and have a beautiful golden robe as they are often fermented and aged in oak barrels. Their bouquet is fresh and delicate, yet complex and powerful as well. The reds, produced from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are deeply colored with aromas of ripe fruit or fruit preserves with smoky and spicy notes. With age, they acquire great complexity with wild aromas of wood, resin and even truffles. Château Haut Brion is the most well-known growth in this appellation.