Vineyards
The Cuvée Spéciale 2000 vintage is sourced from the estate’s organically farmed vineyards in Lalande-de-Pomerol, where the sandy and gravelly soils provide ideal conditions for Merlot and Cabernet Franc to thrive. Organic practices and a commitment to sustainability allow the vineyard to produce grapes of exceptional quality, perfect for long-term ageing.
Winemaking
The 2000 vintage was fermented using traditional methods with minimal intervention, and the wine was aged for 22 months in concrete tanks. The Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend has evolved over the years, offering complexity, structure, and balance. The slow ageing process has softened the tannins, allowing the wine’s nuanced flavours to shine.
Appearance
A rich garnet hue with brick-like reflections, characteristic of a well-aged wine.
Nose
The nose is complex and layered, with aromas of black fruit, leather, and forest floor, alongside notes of earthy truffle and delicate spice.
Palate
On the palate, this wine is full-bodied and velvety, with flavours of dark fruit, leather, and hints of tobacco and earth. The tannins are refined and well-integrated, giving the wine a smooth texture and a long, lingering finish.
Food pairing
This wine pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, game, and hearty stews. It also complements aged cheeses, mushroom risotto, and dishes featuring truffles, making it an excellent choice for special occasions and gourmet meals.
Background story
Domaine de Viaud, located in the heart of Lalande-de-Pomerol, is a 13-hectare estate known for its organically farmed vineyards and exceptional Merlot-based wines. Founded in the 1940s by Marius Bielle, the estate has remained in the family for generations, with Lucette Bielle, Marius's youngest daughter, taking over in 1982. Today, the estate is run with a deep respect for tradition, sustainability, and minimal intervention winemaking, producing wines that reflect the true essence of their terroir.
The vineyard’s 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc are planted on sandy and gravelly soils, ideal for producing rich, elegant wines. Domaine de Viaud has achieved AB and Biodyvin certification, with organic farming practices that include natural grass cover and the use of herbal teas and plant decoctions to protect the vines. The estate avoids thermoregulation and filtration in the winemaking process, allowing the wines to age naturally in concrete tanks for 22 months. Damien Bielle, who returned to the estate in 2020, brings fresh insights after working at prestigious Bordeaux estates, continuing the family’s legacy while staying true to its philosophy of producing wines that express the unique character of the Lalande-de-Pomerol terroir.