Graves Rouge AOC - Mouton Cadet Réserve - Baron Philippe De Rothschild - 2021

Pairing: This wine pairs perfectly with dishes such as grilled red meats, meat stews, aged cheeses, or poultry dishes in sauce.

Taste: The attack on the palate is soft, round, and harmonious. The wine is well-structured, with fine tannins and a nice acidity that provides freshness. It has a beautiful fruity intensity, with nuances of red and black fruits. The woody touch is subtle, adding depth without overpowering the fruity profile.

Finish: The finish is long and elegant, with slightly spicy notes and a persistent fruity aftertaste.

Grape Varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc.

Serving Temperature: 16-18°C

Alcohol Content: 11.5%

The Estate and the Vineyard

The Mouton Cadet estate, founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, is emblematic of the Bordeaux region and is particularly renowned for its high-quality wines. Located in the Graves appellation, the estate benefits from an exceptional terroir, characterized by gravelly soils that favor the cultivation of noble grape varieties.

Graves Rouge Mouton Cadet: The Graves Rouge Mouton Cadet represents the typical expression of the Graves appellation. Graves is one of the oldest and most prestigious appellations in the Bordeaux region, located in the southwestern part of Bordeaux. It is named after the "graves" — a mixture of pebbles, sand, and clay that characterizes this wine-growing area. The Graves appellation spans both banks of the Garonne River, from north to south of Bordeaux.

Characteristics of the Graves Appellation: Terroir: The soils are primarily made up of graves, pebbles, and gravel, which ensure good drainage. This specific terroir helps the grapes reach optimal ripeness and imparts a unique character to the wines, with fine tannins and excellent freshness.

Climate: The climate is oceanic with Atlantic influences, ensuring the vines grow harmoniously throughout the year.

Grape Varieties: The Graves reds are mostly composed of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and sometimes Cabernet Franc.

Merlot gives the wine softness and red fruit aromas.

Cabernet Sauvignon contributes structure and complexity, with notes of blackcurrant and green bell pepper.

Wine Characteristics:

Graves red wines are known for their balance between fruit and structure. They offer aromas of red and black fruits (such as cherry, blackberry, and blackcurrant), combined with hints of sweet spices and a subtle woody note.

Graves wines often have fine tannins, good acidity, and an elegant finish, with a long and refined aftertaste.

Aging Potential:

Graves reds are often more accessible when young, but some wines, including those from the Mouton Cadet estate, can age very well in the cellar, gaining depth and complexity over time.

In summary, the Graves Rouge Mouton Cadet reflects the elegance and craftsmanship of the Rothschild estate, highlighting the unique characteristics of the Graves terroir, producing wines that are both structured and approachable, with a distinct balance of fruit and elegance.