Merlot
75cl * 14% ABV * Bordeaux, France
Maison Sichel is a grower, winemaker and négociant éleveur - to save you reaching for your French dictionary, that last one means 'a purchaser of wine for bottling under its own name'. And in this case the declassified wine comes from Pomerol. The strange thing about Pomerol is that because it has so many famous châteaux within the appellation, wines from the small 800 hectare sub-region never needed to rely on the name 'Pomerol' to sell them (unlike, say St Emilion, which is better known as a region). But then again, when your name is Château Petrus, you don't really need much else on the label to get people interested...
So, what is 'declassified wine' you ask? Well, it comes from some of the most famous châteaux in Bordeaux. At this top level of winemaking, the winemaker will create the blend that will go on to be sold under the château's label (and priced accordingly) but there will be some barrels of juice that are just not needed in the blend, or in bumper years, too much juice is made and the château decides to keep its exclusivity and release only as much as the market dictates.
So, First Growth-level fruit for under £25 a bottle - an unbelievable steal at a fraction of the price of the château label! This wine can be drunk now, but it will also cellar well and reward you in a good few years time.
Tasting note
This Pomerol displays a deep colour with hints of purple reflections. The expressive bouquet reveals notes of black fruits (blackberries, blackcurrants) and undergrowth, highlighted by a subtle violet note typical of its origin. The palate is warm, round, and silky, enriched by Merlot tannins that provide remarkable aromatic persistence accompanied by toasted notes. It is an elegant and distinguished wine, offering all the complexity, richness, and charm that Pomerol wines are renowned for.