Wines Médoc Maison Castel - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Maison Castel’s 2023 Médoc AOC is a classic Bordeaux red, crafted in one of France’s most esteemed wine regions. While the specific blend isn’t detailed, Médoc reds are typically composed of Cabernet Sauvignon as the dominant grape, complemented by Merlot and, on occasion, small proportions of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot. The 2023 vintage hints at a youthful and vibrant wine, often shaped by modern vinification methods designed to preserve freshness while allowing the complexity of the terroir to shine through. Expect a profile marked by dark ruby hues, aromas of blackcurrants, blackberries, subtle cedar, and earthy undertones, with firm yet accessible tannins.

The Médoc lies on Bordeaux’s Left Bank, north of the city itself. This narrow strip of land is renowned for its gravelly soils, which provide excellent drainage crucial for top-quality Cabernet Sauvignon. The climate is moderate and tempered by the Atlantic Ocean, with gentle rainfall and warm, sunny seasons ensuring perfect ripening conditions. Viticulture in the Médoc dates back to at least the 18th century. It’s an area with deep winemaking heritage, home to iconic châteaux and a reputation for structured reds that age gracefully but deliver pleasure in their youth, especially in approachable years like 2023.

This Médoc pairs beautifully with hearty fare. Classic matches include roast lamb with rosemary, entrecôte steak, or duck breast, all of which echo the wine’s structure and depth. For a regional touch, try it with Bordelaise cuisine, such as confit de canard or a simple entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak in a red wine sauce). Hard cheeses like Comté or aged Gruyère also make an excellent companion, as do earthy mushroom dishes.

Open this wine about an hour before serving to allow it to breathe and reveal its complexity. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C for optimal enjoyment, and savour the balance between its youthful fruit and elegant structure.