Château Sociando-Mallet 2011 (AOC Haut-Médoc)

Haut Médoc wine region is a land modeled on hilltops of white gravel, bathed in sunshine, it contemplates the Gironde estuary which protects it from the excesses of the climate. The term “château” designates a wine-growing estate on which there is (or not) a "vrai château". When we also know that the "vrai château" are private houses, entering them as a visitor is a feat. Precisely Sociando-Mallet (Gautreau family) is one of those <<vrais châteaux>>. Why? For wines like this Cabernet Sauvignon 55% - Merlot 4o% - Cabernet Franc 5%.

A visually beautiful opacity that is already tradition in reds wines from the left bank, a color that has resisted more than ten years after its harvest. Olfactorily, a complexity reigns evoking animal notes, ripe fruit and the tertiary notes typical of its 12 months of maturing in barrels. Dry and fine mouthfeel. An elegant development with a wealth of sensations that revolves around the ageing, ink, humus and deep french forest notes. Great breadth and medium structure. Tannin finish already polished and ready to enjoy. 13% vol.

Parker gave it 91 points, but we give this High-Médoc classic 93. The price is quite accessible for a Bordeaux wine: 42 euros. In addition, it can still be kept for another ten years and then enjoy a sensitive experience. The most recommended pairings, if we serve this red at 14º C, revolve around protein. To start, try a Steak frites 7oz grilled AAA flank steak, Bordelaise sauce, French fries. The second option is the animal par excellence of Occitania: the duck. Try a Duck breast mashed with black garlic, flat green beans, beets, pattypan squash, gray oyster mushrooms, pepper sauce.