Merlot dominated Bordeaux blend
75cl * Organic * 14% ABV * Bordeaux, France
Château Puybarbe is situated at the highest elevation of the Côtes de Bourg appellation, looking over the Gironde estuary on the right bank of Bordeaux. The 41 hectare vineyard comprises mainly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and is cultivated according to sustainable philosophies. A brand new winery was opened in 2001 and the winemaking is a mix of traditional and modern showing ultimate respect for the grapes and the terroir.
Gaia de Château Puybarbe 2016 won a Gold Medal in the Concours de Vins de Bordeaux Aquitane 2018 and a Silver Medal in the Concours International de Lyon 2018 contests. And the critics have been fans too, with the Wine Enthusiast rating it 88/100 in July 2020.
'The wine has moderately intense ruby red colour. The nose is charming - toasty nose, with roasted coffee and dark cacao, ripe blackcurrants, grilled green capsicum and touch of white pepper. The medium-bodied palate is delicate with its round and fruity mouthfeel and gentle satiny tannins. The finish is spicy and fruity with fine tannins and savoury finish. Not a very complex wine but drinking lovely in its youth and complements various dishes. Decant 30 minutes before and serve at 16-17C. Great price value wine from Bordeaux!' - Juha Lihtonen (winner of The Best Scandinavian Sommelier 2003)
This wine is a delight with various dishes including rich salads, various vegetarian meals as well as moderate red-meat dishes and of course roasted chicken, fried veal escalope and something like duck confit.