Not all Bordeaux has to be huge and only ready to drink after at least a decade in the cellar. Chateau du Mayne's wonderful Graves Rouge proves that and then some. Run by husband and wife Caroline and Xavier Perromat since 2012, this small independent estate has made the "Quintessential Claret."
Claret is a term coined by the British for Red Bordeaux that can be enjoyed on a daily basis, with or without food, and this embodies that description and then some. A blend of 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, it's one of those reds that is easy to drink, but if you stick your nose in the glass and examine it more deeply, you'll find a contemplative wine with complexity and substance.
2020 Chateau du Mayne Graves Rouge -- Why Should You Buy It?
- It's a great introduction to the classic and traditional style of Bordeaux. Complex and full-flavored, savory and satisfying, this offers up gorgeous notes of earth, iron, graphite, warm berries, tobacco leaf, and spice.
- Not too heavy but certainly not light, it carries these flavors on a rounded and fine-grained palate. Translated, it's not too tannic and sharp, and that means it is ready to drink.....like tonight!
- Ever heard of Cérons? It's the smallest appellation in Bordeaux and a sub-region of Graves, in the southern part of Bordeaux. Those in the know, like your favorite wine guy, know that this area is producing more compelling wines than ever.
- Gravel is the name of the game here. The sub-region of Graves is aptly named, as the soils found here are gravelly and well-drained. This stresses the vines and adds a savory minerality that is quite appealing to those who like that sort of thing.....
I love that sort of thing, and I will be drinking a bottle of this this Saturday with some lamb chops grilled with rosemary and thyme and roasted potatoes. I'll have a glass while I'm grilling, one while I'm eating, and maybe even one more after dinner. You can do the same!
