Listrac-Médoc

The Listrac-Médoc AOC is located on the hills of the Médoc peninsula, in the Bordeaux region. The appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designation was granted to Listrac-Médoc in 1957 and stipulates that wines from the appellation must come exclusively from the commune of Listrac. The vineyard now covers approximately 566 hectares.

While the Listrac-Médoc vineyard is susceptible to cold and frost, it is protected from mildew thanks to its more continental location, far from coastal fog and the Gironde estuary. The clay-limestone terroir, stretching across gentle slopes, benefits from good drainage and offers an exposure conducive to grape ripening. The authorized grape varieties are primarily Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, accompanied in smaller proportions by Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.

A red wine with character that surprisingly retains its freshness as it ages, Listrac-Médoc remains approachable without losing its personality over time. This magnificent appellation is worth discovering or rediscovering through the wines offered by Château Reverdi or Château Donissan.

Wines bearing the Listrac appellation are grown on 623 hectares of vineyards. These balanced wines offer aromas of black and red fruits, leather, and sweet spices. On the palate, the structure and stability of the tannins impart a spicy character. Listrac-Médoc wine is particularly well-suited for aging and retains remarkable freshness over the years. 

The Listrac-Médoc vineyard is located in the Bordeaux wine region. Here are some key dates:

• By 1914, nearly 1,380 acres of vineyards had been planted in the town of Listrac. 

• In 1962, any producer of wine bearing the Listrac-Médoc appellation who owns vineyards located within the designated area containing hybrid varieties will not be eligible to claim the right to use the Listrac appellation.

• In 1957, Listrac was recognized as an AOC by the decree of June 8, 1957.

• In 1974, wines could not be marketed under an AOC designation without a certificate issued by the National Institute of Designations of Origin. 

• In 1975, the interprofessional organization established the “Organic Groups” in the wake of a major economic crisis. 

• In 1986, the decision of October 27 changed the name of the appellation from “Listrac” to “Listrac-Médoc.”

• The regulations governing the “Listrac-Médoc” AOC were revised again on March 24, 1998. This decree primarily concerns the method of planting the vines. 

• In 2009, the European Union implemented new wine regulations effective August 1, 2009.

• In 2012, the regulations for “organic wine” took effect on August 1, 2012. These regulations primarily apply to wines produced from grapes harvested in 2011 and vinified in accordance with the regulations. 

• In 2015, the specifications required the “Listrac-Médoc” AOC, certified by Decree No. 2011-1498 of November 9, 2011, which was replaced by Decision No. 2015-1105 of August 31, 2015, published in the Official Journal. 

The first point is visual appeal. Indeed, the wine’s appearance suggests a rich blend, with its deep color and violet hues. 

Next, the nose. While the aromas of ripe red fruits dominate, this fine Listrac-Médoc wine also displays a variety of nuances, such as hints of leather and licorice, soothing undertones, and a whole range of spicy notes, including toasty aromas from oak aging and vanilla. 

And finally, on the palate. Lively, the Listrac-Médoc commands attention with its grandeur and energy. At times, it reveals a roundness that balances its tannic power. 

In this regard, the possibilities are endless! Indeed, there is no such thing as a “perfect” food-and-wine pairing for Listrac-Médoc; the range of successful pairings is so vast that even the most comprehensive selection could never cover them all. That is why all the recommendations and pairings we offer are simply the result of our desire to share and inspire you by presenting a unique Listrac-Médoc wine pairing that encourages you to discover and experiment. 

• For appetizers, you can choose from Médoc cheese, Sarthe sausage, Easter pâté, or pheasant terrine.

• For appetizers, there’s plenty to choose from: mushroom risotto, Bordeaux-style stuffed porcini mushrooms, cousinat, or Masséna-style soft-boiled eggs. 

• As a main course, a fine Listrac-Médoc wine pairs well with beef tenderloin with duck foie gras, a “maître de chai” ribeye steak, coq au vin, or Pauillac suckling lamb. 

• As for cheeses, you have Tomme du Beaujolais, Deauville, Chambarand Maigre, Cendré de Vergy, and Boulette d’Avesnes.