Ch Grandchemin Monplaisir Saint Estephe 2020

The commune of St. Estephe sits roughly an hour’s drive up the Medoc peninsula from the city of Bordeaux on what is commonly referred to as the “left bank.” Wines from this area tend to be more structured, with a finesse that derives from the close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The 2020 is a blend of 60% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. It exudes rich notes of raspberry and blackberry puree, dried currants and dark chocolate, kissed with wood ash. It is richer and slightly more structured than the wines above, with a few more years of potential in the cellar too. Serve with a ribeye or short ribs.