Fall is the time for fantastic scarves, rich stews and deep flavourful wines.
Last week, I was lucky enough to be invited to the stunning Le Windsor for a VIP Opimian Wine Club tasting of the best of the Bordeaux region!
Led by two of the wine world’s finest:
World Wine Master, Jane Masters.
And, renowned Québec sommelière Jessica Harnois!
Having flown in directly from New Zealand, Jane was delightedly direct with us, “Just because a wine isn’t $1500, doesn’t mean that it won’t be good. I am always on the hunt for the best value, as everyone should get to explore wonderful vintages.” LOVE IT!
Because she initially trained as a winemaker in the Bordeaux region of France, Jane is well versed in the region and passionately shared her top 4 from 2012!
Chateau Senejac, Haut-Medoc 2012
55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc & 4% Petit Verdot
This is a fairly young wine, meaning it should be enjoyed within months of purchasing.
I tried to do Jessica Harnois proud: I did the 5 S. Scanned, Swirled, Sniffed, Sipped & Savoured.
With this light wine, I was reminded of plums & deep red apples. Very light & fruity.
Chateau Labegorce, Margaux 2012
50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc & 4% Petit Verdot
After one sniff, I had images of lavender fields. Upon first sip of this plump wine, the perfumey lavender was confirmed as well as red cherry. This vintage can be kept for years and will develop even more texture.
I am no wine maker, but this blend was delightful. I would serve this to my gfs at a ‘Whine Fest’. Hey, we’re all human ; ).
Chateau Pitran, Pauillac 2012
55% Merlot & 45% Cabernet Sauvignon
This vignoble is right next to the world’s top 2 vineyards of that region.
Know how your neighbours’ tree roots mess up your plumbing? It’s kinda similar for wineries. If the grape quality is all about the soil of the vines, Chateau Pitran is in the same award winning soil except has a fantastic friendly price point. I’m sold!
This medium bodied wine had some MUSCLE. A titch spicy with licorice & plump cassis berries, my mouth immediately turned up into a smile.
Have a picky Mother-in-Law? She’ll be too busy savouring to notice your sheets don’t have hospital corners!
Chateau La Pointe, Pomerol 2012
85% Merlot & 15% Cabernet Franc
THIS WAS MY FAV.
Soft, yet fleshy with a taste of figs. This wine was simply delightful. Full in flavour, but with a fruity finish.
In my home, it will be reserved for special occasions. Coming home from a long day is a special occasion, right? (Please say oui!)
The VIP Opimian Wine Club dégustation was an utter treat! I feel so lucky. These 4 favorites of Jane’s from the Bordeaux region in France, range in price point from 36$ – 77$.
With many family gatherings on the horizon, I know what I’ll be serving!
Bisous,
Mlle Fab ommelière-in-the-Making
xo
