BORDEAUX LEFT BANK

Bordeaux is a tale of two rivers. The Garonne gives rise to the left bank concept, flowing north-west through the city itself to the Gironde estuary. On its western flank lie the prestige appellations: Sauternes, 40 kilometres southeast of the city, is the most celebrated of sweet wines. Here, the interplay with the river Ciron produces autumnal morning mists and optimal conditions for the development of noble rot. The next big port of call is Graves, an area of free-draining soils that has enjoyed a reputation for fine wine production since the

1300s. Today, it enjoys status for dry whites. Approaching the city limits, one reaches Pessac-Léognan. Created in 1987 at the behest of a band of commercially-minded owners, Pessac has undoubtedly raised the profile of local red wines, despite its somewhat clunky name.

To Bordeaux’s north lies the Haut Médoc. This is red wine country, with a particular emphasis on Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrives on the well-drained soils. The major communes are (from south to north) Margaux, St-Julien, Pauillac, and St-Estèphe. Nearing the estuary, one approaches the much larger AC of Médoc. Here there is a propensity of cooler, clay-based soils, which suit the Merlot grape.

$ 25 $ 150

A very harmonious 2020 Médoc from Château du Moulin Neuf. The nose is ripe and reasonably complex with its fresh and dried dark fruit, hints of espresso and meaty undertones. The palate offers balanced freshness and a velvety texture that lingers through the finish. Drinking well now but should hold well over the short term. 2023-2028 –jb

Clavis Oréa means “golden key” in Latin. This is the first vintage of Médoc wine for SaintÉmilion producer Château Carcanieux. The nose is brimming with blue and black fruit over complex undertones of leather, coffee and lifted eucalyptus notes. The palate is weighty yet balanced with firm, sinewy tannins.

$ 41 $ 246

2024-2031–jb 13%

$ 30

$ 180

Château Poitevin is classified as a Cru Bourgeois producer. This is a classification for Médoc AOC wines that singles out superior estates. Lovers of aged wine flavours (dried fruit, leather, mushroom, etc.) will enjoy this 2014 vintage. There is still lots of freshness and tannic structure alongside these developed notes. Should continue to evolve well over the moderate term. 2023-2029–jb