Bordeaux Superieur, 2019. Chateau Lescalle

The Bordelaise are very proud of telling anyone who will listen that Bordeaux is the largest fine wine appellation in the world. It may be boastful, but it's also hard to argue with. There are close to 12,000 producers including 8,000 chateaux. They produce 250 million cases of wine, which is 100 million less than the entire US.

Not all the sub-appellations are great and that fact is reflected in the price. But there are quite a few which automatically puts the wine at a higher level. One of them is the Haut-Medoc, where Lescalle lies. Vintage is also an important factor because Bordeaux latitude makes it a bit fussy when it comes to the critical end of the vintage. Fortunately, they've had a string of very successful ones of which 2016 is a bright star. It doesn't get the recognition it deserves because it came after the legendary 2015, which is considered one of the best ever. That's fine with us because it's just as good.

The chateau was built by Emmanuel Tessandier in 1875, who owned one the largest ship building yards in the world. It is said he became bored with ship building and yearned for the tranquil sight of his vineyards and winery. As chateaux go, Lescalle is on the smaller scale. Its 40 acres produce 10,000 cases comprised of 65% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% each of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. This combination accounts for the deep color and rich bouquet of ripe plum, cassis and anise. The full flavors demand a rich entree pheasant with a wild mushroom dressing.

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