ON THE GRAPEVINE

BY SAM WYLIE-HARRIS

With Bordeaux’s reputation for some of the finest red wines in the world, sometimes it’s easy to be duped into thinking those lovely labels with illustrious chateaux are out of reach. But ‘modern Bordeaux’ – which can be enjoyed in its youth – is far more accessible. Here are some highlights to drink now...

Pierre Jaurant Bordeaux 2020 France, £5.29, Aldi

A superb example of a best-value Bordeaux with delicious depth to the blackcurrant, cherry and plummy dark fruits; seductive oak-spiced nose alongside deep florals, touches of redcurrant and smooth, long finish. A crowd-pleaser.

M&S Chateau Bel-Air Bordeaux 2022 France, £10, Ocado

Fabulously fruity and expressive with good structure; sumptuous red and black fruits interplay with hints of blueberry, cassis, dark chocolate and sweet, peppery spice, underpinned by supple tannins, with a long and lingering finish. Just gorgeous.

Cap Royal Bordeaux Superieur 2020 France, £11, Tesco

Another superb style from this famed appellation, it’s vibrant with a beautiful bouquet of scented florals; the palate is deep with abundant red fruit flavours that meld seamlessly with touches of vanilla toast, velvety smooth tannins and a persistent, long finish. Outstanding value.

Comte De Saint Emmanuel 2021 Bordeaux, France, £12, Morrisons

Immediately enjoyable with its welcoming, spiced, brambly nose, complemented by hints of vanilla and coffee. Bags of plush, blackberry fruit unfold with a touch of cedarwood, hints of plums and more savoury spice on the velvety smooth finish. Seriously good.

Chateau Moulin la Bergere 2019 St Georges Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux,

France, £14.99, Waitrose

A wine to swoon over with a real sense of strength, beguiling aromas of opulent berry fruits mingle with hints of clove and dried flowers.

Smooth, rich and resplendent, tiers of plump, fresh, blackberry fruits with generous cassis flood the palate and glide along beautifully, with gentle spiced notes lending interest on the super-smooth finish. A glorious glass.

Chateau Tour Bayard 2020 Montagne-Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux, France, £17.99 (£13.99 Mix Six), Majestic

Devastatingly delicious, this is a blockbuster red which over-delivers for its price. Sensational florals bewitch and delight with the promise of what’s to come. Think ribbons of blackcurrant, raspberry, cherries and sweet spice, similar flavours integrate on the polished palate with a touch of liquorice framing the ripe cherry and dark berry fruits. Class in a glass.