Sometimes it only takes a word to get the mouth salivating. One of those words is definitely Bordeaux. The British have been crazy about drinking the wine from the region since the 12th century. And while the big Crus draw the oohs and ahhs, its less prestigious wines are a staple on any good table. This Saturday we’re pouring five Bordeaux that anyone can afford and that no one should want to miss. They might even draw some oohs and ahhs.
2013 Chateau Ducasse, Graves Blanc $17
60% Semillon, 40% Sauvignon Blanc
This mineral streaked Grave comes from 40-year-old vines. The Sauvignon Blanc brings aromas of pineapple, citrus and white flowers While the Semillon adds complexity and roundness. It is tangy, with savory notes backed by a core of bitter citrus and followed by a crisp finish. 12.5% alcohol by volume
2012 Chateau Garrineau, Rouge $14
60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon
Garrineau dates back to 1862 in Entre Deux Mers. The grapes for the rouge come from 25-year-old vines. The wine has aromas of cassis, blueberries and a full, dry chewy body. 12.5% alcohol by volume
2012 Maison Givas, Saint Emilion $18
60% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot
This St. Em satellite drinks way above its price. Blackcurrant, cherry and raspberry notes combine with cedar and vanilla undertones, smooth tannins and good finish. 12.5% alcohol by volume
2010 Chateau Magondeau, Fronsac $18
Merlot
From the great 2010 vintage, this Merlot comes from 40-year-old vines and ages for 18 months in epoxy lined vats. This Fronsac has red fruit aromas backed by spicy hints and a full tannic structure. 14% alcohol by volume
2009 Le Bourdieu Medoc $22
50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot
“This is a lovely Cru Bourgeois: very pure and feminine on the nose with crisp red berries, redcurrant and candied orange peel. The palate is fleshy but not cloying with layers of ripe sweet red fruit, leading to a very lithe sensual finish where the oak is supremely well integrated.” — Wine Advocate. 13.5% alcohol by volume
Madrona Wine Merchants offers free wine tastings featuring 4-5 selections on a theme every Saturday from 2 until the bottles run out and on Sunday we offer a mini-tasting of two wines all day from 11-5.