The two main villages of the appellation are Lalande-de-Pomerol and Néac. The vineyards around Néac are planted on soils that have components of clay and gravel. Gravel soils are a distinctive feature of the vineyards in Pomerol. Merlot grows more successfully on this type of soil. It is here that the better Lalande-de-Pomerol wines are produced. The soils around Lalande are sandier and more alluvial in nature (being closer to the Isle and Dordogne rivers). This leads to a greater concentration of Cabernet grapes, which prefer free-draining soils.

The Barbanne stream separates Pomerol from Lalande de Pomerol. This is the same stream that divides Saint-Émilion to the south-east from its less-prestigious satellite appellations. Rivers are of great significance in this part of Bordeaux. They define appellation boundaries, moderating the climate and dictating the make-up of the region’s soils.

The stellar success of Pomerol has stimulated viticultural activity and much new investment in Lalande-de-Pomerol. Still great value and appealing to the younger consumer.