Box: December 2024
Ohh Bordeaux
Every year for our December box we try to find that something special and this year we decided to dedicate our Box to not a specific wine, but rather an exceptional place – Bordeaux. Home to some of the most famous wines in the world (spoiler, none of which are in this box), wines from the region are known for their bright white, and medium bodies red cuvees (spoiler, all of which are in this box) that make the wines elegant company for your Christmas dinner.
Whites from the region are most always on a base of Sauvignon. Pale in color, but rich in taste of white fruits and often flowers from the blending with Muscadelle , the whites bring an elegant start and long finish.
The reds are all of the classic Bordeaux Blend style. This means Merlot, Cabernets, and Petit Verdot. Although rich in color, these are wines of medium body and often high tannin that pair so well with red meat, that are so convincing that you may decide “primitivo” is no longer your thing. Think rich fruits, medium acidity and a little pepper. Now all you need is a roast beef and Christmas has arrived.
Lastly, thank you all for your support in our 17th year of IWCoK – we will see you in 2025!
Mike + Misa
Château Greteau Medeville
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Sauvignon
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Mangustino
- vivino: 3.6
- Price: 249 Kč
Mike's Tip
A blend of all the white Bordeaux varieties available; Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. A light yellow tint to what is a clear headed and refreshing wine. Apricots and some citrus with a finish that leaves your nose full of flowers.
Entre deux Mers
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 12,5%
- Style: Light and refreshing dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Mangustino
- vivino: 3.7
- Price: 239 Kč
Mike's Tip
A blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle, this wine has hints of pineapple and orange. The Muscadelle gives its' characteristic perfumed sent. I recommend spicy shrimp or noodles.
Pur
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 12,5%
- Style: Medium-bodied dry white wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Mangustino
- vivino: 4.0
- Price: 289 Kč
Mike's Tip
Don't let the name fool you, this wine is pure Sauvignon, but from two specific varieties; Blanc and Gris. The lesser known variety is a little less "dramatic" and is used primarily to blend and round. An easy drinking sauvignon that will be great for anyone looking for something a little less grassy.
Chateau du Mouret
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 12,5%
- Style: Medium-bodied dry white wine
- Drink: Wine with potencial 2 to 5 years
- Supplier: Mangustino
- vivino: 3.7
- Price: 289 Kč
Mike's Tip
For those who know the hierarchy of white wines of Bordeaux, they know that Graves sits at the head table. This wine with scents of white flowers and white fruits brings a freshness to the mouth, and a round finish with similar hints to its nose.
Château Medeville
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 13%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Mangustino
- vivino: 3.5
- Price: 249 Kč
Mike's Tip
Intense tannins and spicy red fruit. Quite spirited in its flavor despite aging for 18 months in oak vats before bottling.
Chateau Galau
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 14%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Mangustino
- vivino: 3.8
- Price: 269 Kč
Mike's Tip
This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot has robust tannin and juicy red (fruit) flesh. Full of subtle tones of cacao and vanilla blended with a pronounced acidity that make this a lovely red meat accompaniment.
Chateau Valentin
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 14,5%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Mangustino
- vivino: 3.5
- Price: 239 Kč
Mike's Tip
Now get this - this wine won the 'Coup de Coeur' prize from the Guides de Vin de France. No surprise I guess given the name, Look for a typical spicy red with tannin and acidity. Serve with hearty meats and cheese.
La Vie Sauvage
Wine description:
- Country: France
- Grape: Cuveé
- Alcohol: 12,5%
- Style: Medium-bodied red wine
- Drink: Wine for immediate consumption
- Supplier: Mangustino
- Price: 229 Kč
Mike's Tip
An interesting blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc! This means cherries and red fruits. This organic wine delivers a blast of juicy fruit that is still quite lively. Great for a rough dinner of burgers or pizza or what ever you got in the fridge.