ABOUT: 12th century monks first planted vines on the Bordeaux hillsides where Vieille Tour lies today. These 72 hectares of classic varieties are spread across hillsides along the Garonne river and the historic commune Saint-Michel-de-Lapujade. In 1839 Pierre Boissoneau purchased the property and currently a gang of his organically-minded descendents are running the show. Merlot is the predominant grape variety, followed closely by Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. This goes for the blend in the bottle as well, perfectly classical Bordeaux. Except organic and affordable! They’ve been keeping bees for two decades and eco-graze with local sheep. Pest management rather than attempted annihilation. We feel mighty lucky to have found this amazing, affordable Bordeaux, it’s in our cupboard, should be in yours too. TASTE: The Chateau de la Vieille Tour Bordeaux Superieur 2019 is opaque and showing signs that positive development is under way. Intense aromas and flavors of raspberries, blackberries, plums, black pepper, soy sauce, smoky campfire and black licorice. The tannins are a dusty, dry, and medium, with a pleasant uptick of acidity which keeps this full-bodied wine bouncy. Long finish and plenty more room for more savory development. PAIR: Brie and tomato sandwich, smoked Gouda Triscuits, rosemary and tomato focaccia, mushroom and onion pizza on sourdough crust, mushroom and tofu with mustard greens, and crispy cauliflower with tarragon.
