Bordeaux, France is home to some of the world’s greatest wine estates, but these properties were not what the fame of Bordeaux was built on. Few of us can get our hands on, let alone afford, the great wines of Bordeaux. The region’s true specialty is making well-priced wines in the regional style that are delicious, food-friendly, and can improve over a few years in the cellar. This week’s wine, the 2016 Vieux Château des Rocs Cuvée Tradition, embodies that spirit and style perfectly.
Tasting Notes: This classic right bank Bordeaux blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc brings ripe, full flavours of black plum, currant and blackberry framed by hints of graphite, tobacco and oak spice. The tannins are just the “iron fist in a velvet glove” experience you’re looking for. If you plan to buy a few bottles for the cellar, waiting will yield even more cigar box and spice notes!
Enjoy With: Roast prime rib of beef, juicy burgers, flank steak, braised and slow cooked meats, gouda or aged cheddar cheeses, or just an enjoyable sip on its own.
Style: A fruity, full-bodied red wine.
Terroir/Region: The village of Lussac lies right next to the famed Bordeaux region of Saint-Emilion, with the village’s wines emulating those of its more famous neighbour while leaving the prestigious prices behind. Rolling hills of diverse soil types make the region very complex in terms of terroir, with the plots of clay-limestone soil being perfect for growing Merlot.
Producer: Vieux Château des Rocs is a family-owned and operated property, run by 4th generation winegrower Guillaume Seize. The 7 hectare property is located in the heart of Lussac, with plenty of the region’s most desired terroir within its boundaries, making even the neighbours in Saint-Emilion jealous.
Availability: Vieux Château des Rocs Cuvée Tradition will be available in the Vintages section of your local LCBO and for online ordering on May 21, but a few stores may already have it on the shelf. Grab a bottle for today and a few for the cellar!
Check LCBO store inventory
Price: $18.95
LCBO #: 23982
Size: 750 mL
Alcohol Content: 14.5% alc./vol.
