With four Trophies and 80+ Golds, Château La Clarière is clear proof that Castillon wines can surpass those of Grand Cru St-Émilion. From the exceptional 2020 vintage, this rich, velvety claret, packed with fruit, deserves its five Golds.
Castillon is a tucked-away Right Bank Bordeaux appellation that, for too long, has lived in the shadow of its famous neighbour, Saint-Emilion. The two regions share the same soils, grapes and climate and the best Castillon wines certainly stand scrutiny next to the Grands Crus of the famous one. The upside is that claret lovers can still find Castillon wines at exceptionally good prices.
Château Joanin came into the Bécot family in 2001. It has the highest vineyards in all Castillon, in the lieu-dit of Joanin. Juliette Bécot is today in charge and, with the renowned Bordeaux winemaker Thomas Duclos as consultant, it’s clear they are aiming high. Merlot with Cabernet Franc, aged 50% in new oak, this is a rich red. Open early and decant.
It comes from Château Bel-Orme, founded in 1750 by the Tronquoy-de-Lalande family and designed by Victor Louis (famous for the Grand Théatre of Bordeaux). At 13 years old, it's drinking superbly now. Don't miss your chance to secure it at this impressive price.
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There's no doubt about it, Big Mac McPherson makes a mean, BIG red - indeed, he's been making some of our popular weighty Australians for years. He's passed this skill on to his son Angus, as well as a bug for travelling. Angus, like his dad did before him, has been gaining experience around the world, but has recently returned to the cellar, keen to show his worth.
Believing the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, Angus has blended this gobstopper red from Bordeaux's Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot. It has lovely, dark fruity appeal, with plenty of spice from the Petit Verdot and juicy plummy Merlot filling it out. A touch of firmness makes it great with food. Decant The Angus and serve with slow cooked lamb or rare roast beef.
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