2017 Château Bouscassé Madiran, Southwest, France

ABOUT THIS WINE:

Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc vines from 20 to 100 years-old. Terroir of fine yellow and white variegated clays on a layer of fissured limestone. Sustainable agriculture, natural compost. Vinification and Maturing: 3 to 6 weeks in 30-50% new oak barrels.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER:

Alain Brumont took over the little family wine estate, Chateau Bouscassé, in 1979, then purchased Chateau Montus to create the wine of his dreams. He constructed his first underground cellars at Bouscassé in 1988, then the new Chateau Montus cellars in 1995. By 2003, the chateau had been renovated to receive seminars and special events. In 1990 he discovered the ideal stretch of land that would become a world-renowned icon: La Tyre. Alain has been voted best French winemaker and, at the international level, the producer of one of the ten finest wines in the world. Offering the perfect balance of quality and value, Southwest France is a recognized appellation that encompasses all wine regions in France’s southwestern corner (except for Bordeaux and Cognac, which merit their very own). Two of the more famous subregions here are Cahors, known for its Malbec, and Madiran, home of the robust Tannat grape. Bordeaux Blends are also popular red wines of the Southwest. You get the power and intensity of a Bordeaux wine without the hefty price!