Clyde's Corner
What’s Clyde drinking these days? Our Bordeaux-loving co-owner sent me his two picks for the week—both young Bordeaux at great prices.
2017 Tour Leognan Blanc, Pessac-Léognan $19.99
We love the wines from the very old and famous Château Carbonnieux. I have a soft spot in my heart for this property as it was there in 2001 that I was inducted into the Commanderie de Bordeaux.
The wines from Château Tour Léognan are blended from the young Château Carbonnieux vines (under 12 years old) using the same vine-growing and winemaking methods. During their first years of production the replanted young vines produce delicious, full-flavored wines although a little less rich in aromas. They are decidedly very pleasant and easy to drink when young.
This is a wine for pleasure, a blend characterized by the Sauvignon which confers on it a dynamic blend of citrus notes and a full and elegant palate, all well-balanced by the round, rich texture of the Semillon. 2017 was a great white wine vintage in Bordeaux and this wine shows exceptionally well. A touch of oak blends well with the citrus notes on the nose and palate. Perfect for a poolside sipper in the coming months.
2015 du Moulin Rouge, Haut-Medoc $19.99
Château du Moulin Rouge is located in the commune of Cussac-Fort-Médoc (Gironde). It has belonged to the same family for 13 generations and is now a well-reputed Cru Bourgeois in the Haut-Médoc appellation. Sandwiched between the famous Margaux and St-Julien appellations, the château benefits from an outstanding terroir. In fact, many trade professionals and knowledgeable wine lovers compare the wines of Château du Moulin Rouge with those of St-Julien.
We have driven past this property every year since 1985, but we have only bought the wine three times. The latest buy is this exceptionally good 2015. The elegance of the 2015 vintage especially in Margaux and St-Julien shows through on this usually big and tannic wine. Red rose aromas and cassis flavors open up after decanting. Give it some air and enjoy with a pot roast or hamburger. This will cellar well for 10 years plus.
- Clyde Beffa Jr.