The most classic wine region is on the menu this Saturday. From the most “conventional” but very delicious Saint-Émilion to the renewal that is blowing through winemaking in Bordeaux, here are four beautiful bottles to enjoy at the end of the week.
Drink less. Drink better.
Agora du Château des Places 2016, Graves, France
$35.75 – SAQ code 15150790 – 13.5%
It is the archetype of modern burgundy. Dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and complemented by Merlot, it offers an enticing nose of ripe black fruits, coffee, toast and vanilla. The mouth is silky, almost velvety. Ripe tannins around a pretty good density. Slightly smoky finish. If you like California wines, you will love them.
★★★ $$$
Château Gaillard, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2018, France
$32.25 – SAQ code 919316 – 13.5% – Organic
We move on to the archetypal Saint-Émilion in the classical style. Not very dense, but gentle and elegant. The nose is enchanting with elegant scents of plum, leather, tobacco and a hint of vanilla. It is very drinkable and leaves the impression of a wine that has already melted. An excellent way to discover the beauty of the wines of this renowned appellation.
★★★ $$$
Côtes Rocheuses, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2016, France
$31.50 – SAQ code 704817 – 14%
Produced by the Cooperative Winery of the Union of St-Émilion Producers, it is a wine very similar to its predecessor but with a little more character and enthusiasm on the palate. The wine is dominated by Merlot (85%) and complemented by Cabernet Franc. It offers aromas of blackcurrant, strawberry, smoke, hummus, oxblood and a hint of iron. Fleshy material and well integrated tannins. Rich and elegant finish. Yummy.
★★★1⁄2 $$$
Clos de la Molénie 2021, Bordeaux, France
$22.50 – SAQ code 14910241 – 12% – Organic
With a “new wave” burgundy red, we move into a completely different register. Just the shape of the Burgundy bottle and the wax capsule makes us feel like we want to stand out. A 100% Merlot, organically/biodynamically grown and vinified in amphoras. A simple and pleasant nose with an emphasis on fruit (crushed raspberry, blackcurrant) and notes of undergrowth. It is delicious, round, very fresh with light tannins. A “Gluglou” style that we carefully put in the fridge for an hour before serving.
★★★ $$
Legend
★ Correct
★★ Good
★★★ Very good
★★★★ Excellent
★★★★★ Exceptional
More stars than dollars: worth the price.
As many stars as dollars: worth the price.
Less stars than dollars: wine is expensive.