Name of Estate/Domaine:
Produced by Château d’Arche, a prestigious Bordeaux estate renowned for its Sauternes, now showcasing its expertise in red winemaking with the “A de Château d’Arche” Graves Rouge.
Country/Region:
France – Bordeaux, specifically the Graves appellation on the Left Bank of the Garonne River.
Grape/Blend: A classic Bordeaux red blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
ABV: 13.5%
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep ruby red with garnet reflections.
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Aroma: Aromas of ripe blackberries, red cherries, and plum, layered with subtle notes of tobacco, cedar, and baking spice.
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Palate: Medium to full-bodied with soft tannins and a well-structured mouthfeel. Flavors of dark fruit, cassis, and a touch of oak lead to a long, balanced finish.
Terroir:
Gravelly soils rich in minerals provide excellent drainage and heat retention, promoting ripeness and concentration in the grapes while adding complexity to the wine.
Viticulture:
- Hand-harvested grapes to ensure optimal ripeness and selection.
- Sustainable vineyard management practices focused on biodiversity and long-term soil health.
Vinification:
- Fermentation in temperature-controlled vats to preserve fruit purity and freshness.
- Aged in French oak barrels to integrate tannins and add complexity.
- Minimal intervention approach to allow the terroir to shine through.
Food pairing:
- Roasted lamb or duck with herbs.
- Grilled ribeye steak or beef stew.
- Mature cheeses like Comté or aged cheddar.
- Mushroom risotto or truffle pasta for a vegetarian option.
This Graves Rouge is best served slightly below room temperature at around 16–18°C, allowing its structure and layered flavors to unfold beautifully in the glass.
