Denis Durantou La Chenade, Lalande-de-Pomerol, France 2019 (750ml)

Château la Chenade is the second wine of Château Les Cruzelles, owned by Denis Durantou of Château L'Eglise Clinet fame. The soils here are similar to the Pomerol terroir, of which he has demonstrated mastery. Being the estate's second wine, this is produced from its younger vines, along with a smaller percentage of purchased fruit, and carries a higher percentage of Cabernet Franc - in this case, 20% Cabernet Franch to 80% Merlot. A source of great value, it is an opportunity to drink a wine of deep pedigree at an attainable price. It is aged in 25% new French oak. The nose is plush with dark red cherry, cherry blossom, and soft notes of oak. On the palate, cherry fruit and velvety plum are met with a kiss of sweet spice and vanilla that culminate in young but soft tannins. A lovely example of younger-drinking Bordeaux that will be more than welcome alongside medium-aged cheeses, meaty pastas, rich poultry dishes, or lean cuts of pork.