Bordeaux is best known for its expensive, ageworthy red wines that are among the most famous and collectible in the world. But this tier represents only a fraction of what the region produces, and if you know where to look, there’s accessible value to be found.
Today’s wine is a perfect example. Sure, it could stand nicely next to a fancy steak, or a five course white tablecloth dinner. But we think its best match is good takeout pizza. That’s not a knock against the wine – we tried the combo earlier this week, and it’s hard to imagine a better match.
The Château Lafont Menaut is the second property from the owners of the prestigious Chateau Carbonnieux, a legendary Graves estate. The Perrins farm their less famous terroirs with the same care as Carbonnieux, and the Lafont-Menaut rouge is among the most consistent wines we import.
Their 2018 rouge is a merlot cabernet blend with excellent depth and nice balance. The nose shows plums, chalk, stones, and hints of tobacco. The mouth is dense, chewy, and delicious, with softened tannins perfectly coated by ripe inky fruit.
Okay, fine – wouldn’t turn down Lafte with a takeout pizza either. But until someone else buys us one, this Lafont is a home run.
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Lafont-Menaut Pessac-Leognan rouge 2018
bottle price: $24
FREE EAST COAST SHIPPING ON ANY 12 BOTTLES