Bordeaux is one of the most respected wine producing regions in the world. From this part of the world come some of the most expensive wines you will find on the market. A bottle of Petrus from the right bank goes for thousands of dollars and yes, people actually pay that price and it sells out year after year! I’m not here to find wines that only one percent of the population can afford. No, I look for deals and although Bordeaux is known for expensive red blends, you can also find some great wines for next to nothing. A paradox for sure, but the more you search the more truth you find in the aforementioned statement. This is so true with my pick for September.
2021 Chateau La Croix Du Duc Bordeaux ( Bordeaux, France)…. $10.
Like a lot of the lesser priced Bordeaux, this does not give a specific area inside the region. Simply put it’s from Bordeaux and it is made from the three most popular grapes in that region, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. What I like most about this red is that it has the elements of old world wine with enough fruit to attract the new world palate. The best of both worlds if you ask me.
One the nose, you get just a hint of funk, along with notes of earth, cherries, currants and dried herbs. Solid currant and cherry notes on the palate with a kiss of graphite and spice. Smooth tannins and good balance with a nice beam of acidity that rides underneath, making it a nice food wine and keeps it fresh. There is a kiss of worn leather on the mid-palate into the lingering finish. Crazy good for ten bucks and this makes a nice gateway wine for those of you who haven’t bought into red Bordeaux quite yet. (B-/B)
Cheers!
Stan The Wine Man
