Clarendelle Bordeaux Inspired by Haut-Brion 2014
Bordeaux Blend
Chateau Haut Brion is one of the 5 wines in Bordeaux that is classified as First Growth, the highest rank awarded in France, based on the 1855 classification. Unsurprisingly such a wine comes with a formidable price tag and depending on the vintage can range from £300 to £600. I have not had the pleasure of tasting wine from this property yet, however I live in hope that a generous friend may at some point open one for me!
For those that may be in a similar boat, the property thankfully launched a daughter company in 2003 releasing wines under the brand name Clarendelle, whose wines are a little more affordable. The wines are produced from all over the Bordeaux region with the red wines being a varying blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc depending on the vintage and the growing conditions for that year.
The wine I tasted was their Bordeaux Rouge, from 2014. The blend was of 74% Merlot,
20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc. The wine was smooth and supple with lovely flavours of dark fruits and cassis. A medium bodied wine with well integrated tannins.
An enjoyable bordeaux and good value at just under £20 in the UK.
Overall score: 88
Price:
- UK: £19.49 (Laithwaites)
- US: $19.99
- AUS: $35.99
Wine specification:
- Grape variety: 74% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc
- Region: Bordeaux, France
- Vintage 2014
- Alcohol: 13.5%
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