Appellation: Haut-Medoc

Region: Bordeaux

GRAPE VARIETIES: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot

Winery: A few years ago, Jean-Eugene Borie, owner of Bordeaux superstar and 2nd Growth Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou, was looking for a small estate where he could produce high quality wine at a reasonable price. His eye fell to Chateau Fort Lignac, 2 miles down from Saint-Julien. As such, this little 10 hectare gem is now completely run by the geniuses at Ducru-Beaucaillou.

Tasting Notes: It produces a wine that is rich and well balanced with all the “oomph” of a Left Bank Cabernet without the hefty price tag of Classified Growths. Clear deep ruby in color; aromas of blackberry and cassis, with notes of cedar, vanilla, toasted oak and earth; dry and medium-bodied, with balanced acidity and fine-textured tannins; flavors of cassis and dried fruits, with a smoky note underlying. The predominance of Cabernet is a striking feature of its bouquet and flavor. Coffee and cassis are on display in its aroma and on the palate. There's excellent fruit concentration, with only silky tannin in the finish.

Food pairing: This wine is excellent with red meat, cheese and pasta.

www.chateau-ducru-beaucaillou.com