Bordeaux Brings a Bold Taste of France at a Great Value
Article and photo by Kait Nienhuis
Some of the best wine tasting experiences occurs in an intimate setting surrounded by fellow wine lovers and, of course, great wines. I had such an experience when I attended a Bordeaux walk-around tasting at the warm and trendy Le Germain Hotel in downtown Toronto on March 31.
A mellow and comforting ambiance, enhanced by the dim lights and sophisticated décor, greeted me as I entered the tasting room. As a young wine enthusiast, it wasn’t hard to get excited about the 21 Bordeaux wines available for tasting. The majority of the wines were complex and well structured and promoted a satisfying balance of luscious fruit notes and toasty oak.
The best bang for your buck was the 2008 Chateau de Courteillac, (360552 - $11.95), which boasted aromas of juicy blackcurrants and jammy cherry. Surprisingly earthy tones grace the palate and hints of cedar and light oak mingle on the finish. This is an approachable wine with good structure for the price.
Those looking for a great wine to sip on during a leisurely summer evening can try Bordeaux Cotes de Francs 2007 Chateau Puyfromage, (33605 - $14.95). Don’t be fooled by the aromas of oak and spice, this wine envelops the palate with juicy fruit notes of
strawberries and cherries and has a soft, delicate finish. This wine is exciting but not overwhelming and will get along just fine with your patio.
For a more complex wine, try the 2005 Chateau Argenteyre, (117655 - $24.75), from the Medoc region. The wine has a rich ruby colour and boasts aromas of spice, licorice and a hint of currant. Flavours of licorice, plum and prune are bold but balanced. This wine has attitude and should be decanted. Pair it with a juicy rare steak or lay it down to age for a few years. Either way you’re in for a powerful palate pleaser.
The majority of the wines featured cost under $20, certainly a great value for wines that promote such flavour and structure. The winning combination of good price and great taste will undoubtedly attract consumers to these brilliant Bordeaux’s. Visit your local liquor store shelves to experience the thrilling taste of Bordeaux wines for yourself. www.bordeaux.com.
Kait Nienhuis is in her final year as a journalism student at Durham
College. She has a passion for wine and is working towards becoming an
established wine writer.
