Cabernet Sauvignon
Top countries producing this wine: |
Commonly known as the king of red wines, Cabernet Sauvignon produces the most sought-after wines in the world, from the top châteaux of Bordeaux (principally the Médoc and Graves appellations) to the resplendent reds of California’s Napa Valley. Arguably the most successful red grape in the history of winemaking, its popularity continues to boom, with new plantings in top quality regions such as Argentina, Chile and South Africa. Even in Italy, where the focus is on traditional Italian varieties, Cabernet-based “Super Tuscan” blends such as Sassicaia are ranked among their most highly prized wines. The appealing flavor, structure, longevity, and overall complexity of Cabernet make it a superior wine grape. The body is often full and richly layered, with an array of tastes such as black currant, black raspberry, eucalyptus and anise. Tobacco and cedar box spice are characteristic of the silky maturity of older vintages. |
Merlot
Top countries producing this wine: |
Merlot still suffers from the negative publicity it received in 2004 from the wine-themed movie Sideways. But even before that movie, Merlot had begun to be perceived as a beginner’s wine — soft and simple. We think that’s an unfair conclusion: inferior examples of Merlot are usually the result of overprinting in the wrong soil types rather than any intrinsic deficiencies in the grape. In fact, some of the most sought-after collectible wines are Merlot-based, including the great Bordeaux of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. A single bottle of the current vintage of Château Pétrus will fetch prices in the neighborhood of $4,000! How can one grape manifests itself as both wine plonk and memorable classics? Seemingly a wine paradox, Merlot’s identify crisis may be cleared up by this oft-repeated winemaker’s adage: The quality of the wine is directly proportional to the quality of the vineyards. Merlot is the second-most planted red wine grape in the world, so there is bound to be variation in quality. As with all grapes, location and the reputation of the winemaker are the two most important details when it comes to producing great wine. The characteristics that make Merlot a noble wine worthy of seeking out are its potential for aging, full, ripe berry flavors, plumy or fruitcake middle and, yes, that velvety, plush finish. |
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Château d’Issan, Margaux
2005 / 750 ml.
France | Médoc | MargauxItem #48584Limited inventory.
9 bottles or less in stock; we will confirm your order by email. -
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Château Margaux
2005 / 750 ml.
France | Médoc | MargauxItem #51105Limited inventory.
9 bottles or less in stock; we will confirm your order by email. -
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