2017 Now finished: Château DE RESPIDE. Graves, Bordeaux

Graves is south of the city of Bordeaux but has the same dominant gravel (hence the name) soil as the Médoc region further north. Generally the wines are a little softer, broader and less age-worthy than those from the latter area.

67% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, matured for 6 months in oak (one third new wood).

The Château of the estate is one of the oldest in the region, built in the seventeenth century.

2017s are for early-drinking and this has the lightness and freshness that typifies the vintage, as well as a savoury, gentle earthy quality that makes it so clearly ‘Graves’. Good value for the quality.