Chateau de Francs

2007 Chateau de Francs Cotes de Francs

Direct Import Price $25!

The Cotes de Franc appellation, near St. Emilion, is tiny by Bordeaux standards. It was relatively unknown apart from Bordeaux "insiders" until the 70's, and in the mid 80's it drew in-depth attention of the owners of Chateau Cheval Blanc and Chateau l'Angelus, who purchased the 40ha of Chateau de Francs.

Made with 70% merlot, 20% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon, this wine, which is quite rich, generous and balanced, stood out in a large line up of "blind" Bordeaux recently. It is made with a traditional vinification process and aged in oak (20% new) for 12 months. How this is all done for the price is amazing!

It is fresh, youthful and lively with plummy / cassis and graphite / gravel nuances melding with subtle violet and spice aromatics. The palate is quite generous and supple, but there is very complex "Bordeaux" tannin structure.RANDALL POLLARD