Wines Graves Clos Floridène - 2021

Clos Floridène 2021, Graves AOC, is a red Bordeaux crafted predominantly from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, sometimes with a touch of Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc, depending on the vintage. The 2021 vintage in Bordeaux, marked by a cool growing season, lends this wine a certain elegance and freshness. The grapes are typically hand-picked, and careful vinification emphasises both fruit purity and the aromatic complexity one expects from this renowned estate. Maturation, often in French oak barrels, imparts subtle spice, structure, and longevity, while preserving the wine’s classic notes of blackcurrant, cherry, graphite, and gentle earthiness, all tied together with a supple tannic frame.

Graves lies on the left bank of the Garonne River, south of the city of Bordeaux. The region is famed for its gravelly soils, which provide excellent drainage and impart a distinctive minerality to the wines. The climate benefits from both Atlantic influence, which brings humidity and temperate conditions, and the natural protection offered by the surrounding pine forests. Graves is one of the oldest winemaking areas in Bordeaux, with a reputation established centuries ago for producing both red and white wines combining structure with finesse.

A red Graves such as this is beautifully versatile at the table. Its balance of ripe fruit, fresh acidity, and gentle tannins suit classic Bordelais dishes like entrecôte à la bordelaise (grilled rib steak with a wine sauce) or magret de canard (duck breast). It will also pair nicely with roast lamb, wild mushrooms, or a mushroom risotto. For regional authenticity, consider serving it alongside confit de canard or a selection of aged French cheeses such as tomme de Savoie.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Clos Floridène 2021 at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for around an hour is advisable, as this will help the wine open up and reveal its nuanced bouquet and supple texture. Enjoy now for its freshness and energy, or cellar for a few years to develop further complexity.