A mature red Bordeaux from France can be a very special holiday gift, but finding an affordable one is a challenge. That’s why I was thrilled to come across a 1997 Moulis-en-Médoc for just under $25. This wine comes from the smallest village appellation within the Médoc, Bordeaux’s largest and one of its most famous wine regions. Red wines from Bordeaux are almost always blends, and cabernet sauvignon is usually the dominant grape in those from Médoc.
Wines labeled Moulis must be made from grapes grown in specific plots from certain parishes in this village. Although Moulis is not as well-known as some of the other Médoc village appellations such as Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Estèphe and Saint-Julien, this tiny commune produces some very good wines and excellent values like the one reviewed below.
Château Bel-Air Lagrave 1997 Cru Bourgeois, Moulis-en- Médoc, Bordeaux, France
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Bought • Wine Merchant, 7817 Forsyth Boulevard, in November for $24.99
Description • Château Bel-Air Lagrave is a respected property that’s mentioned in go-to resources including Tom Levenson’s “The Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia” and Clive Coates’ “Wines of Bordeaux.” Owned by the Seguin-Bacquey family for more than 150 years, the Château is known for producing fine old-school Bordeaux reds that age very well. This 21-year-old wine is a good example. The tannins have softened over time to produce a delicious and elegant dry red that’s smooth, silky and easy to drink. Aged in oak for 18 to 20 months, this wine is made mostly from cabernet sauvignon followed by merlot and a touch of petit verdot. It tastes of dark berries, spice and a hint of leather and would be a great accompaniment to lamb and steak.