Bordeaux, 2018. Chateau de Francs

The story of owner Hubert de Bouard is as incredible as his wines. He grew up in in the vineyards of Chateau Angelus in Saint-Emilion. It is one of the great Chateau of Bordeaux. His father taught him to prune the vines at seven. In 1985 he took over running the Chateau.

In 2001, the owner of Clos des Jacobins, also in Saint-Emilion, asked Hubert to consult on a new property he was purchasing. From then on it was a roller coaster ride consulting to so many outstanding properties that his resume reads like the best of the best in French wine. He also sought the help of Michel Rolland, unquestionably the most famous winemaker in Bordeaux. He even went outside Bordeaux into Burgundy and met with two of finest winemakers there, Henri Jayer and Denis Mortet. From them he learned how to grow grapes the old fashion way without the use of chemicals and show the most respect for the land that holds his livelihood.

Our selection is in the Cotes de Bordeaux, a solid property but without the reputation and presence of a Chateau Angelus. However, in the hands of people like Bouard, the property can be transformed into a much greater one than the appellation would suggest. The blend here is 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. It has all the luscious character of Bordeaux with cassis and ripe plum balanced with spice and vanilla. The voluptuous texture would be a classic match for steak and kidney pie or seasoned lamb chops.

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