A Diamond in the Rough: 2002 Coufran

Château Coufran, located in the far north of Bordeaux in the Medoc region, has been a "stellar seller" for K&L for over 25 years.

We have sold through many vintages of this wine from the 90s and early 2000s. Here is the last of the older Coufrans available at the property: the 2002 vintage. Everyone knows that I am not a fan of 2002 Bordeaux in general, especially on the Left Bank. The wines of 2002 were much more successful on the Right Bank, mainly because Merlot did well in 2002, while the Cabernet was much less successful.

But wait! Coufran has always been a Merlot-dominated property—just like many of its neighbors such as Verdignan and La Tour de By. In fact in the late 80s and early 90s Coufran actually inscribed Merlot at the top of their label. Well I tasted the 2002 finally, and it is VERY good. The usual "old-school" style of Coufran matches well with the fatness and sweetness of Merlot, and the wine is delicious right now. A great value for under $30. Plenty of blackberry and mineral aromas lead to a rather soft and elegant palate entry. Still alive and well (great storage at the property) and promising to cellar well for a few more years. A soft, smooth finish here and the wine is perfect for your Wednesday night hamburger or even your steak and claret Friday night. I like it as much as their awesome 2001.

- Clyde Beffa Jr.