HalfBottle:ChateauLaPassonne2022,Bordeaux

A delicious Merlot dominated, modern-style ‘claret’ with an easy, ripe fruitiness, which makes it approachable and food friendly.

2022 – 13% abv

Situated in the commune of Cadillac, on the opposite bank of the Garonne to the Graves and Sauternes, this Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux has been something of a find. Made by Michel Bonot and Louis-Michel Muyst, of Chateau Carbon d’Artigues, in the Graves, this is an outstanding claret with plenty of easy, succulent fruit, a good structure provided by very soft, ripe tannins and a long finish. It shows you that even cheaper red Bordeaux can provide some terrific drinking if carefully made by passionate artisan-craftsmen.

Merlot 60%, Cabernet-Sauvignon 35%, Cabernet Franc 5%