Viniou Reviews
Château La Clarière 2011 from the Castillon-côtes-de-bordeaux appellation is a classic Bordeaux red wine. Situated in the Libournais subregion, this wine benefits from a rich tapestry of terroir with diverse soils including clay, limestone, and gravel, which contribute to the complexity and depth of its flavour profile. While the exact blend of grapes isn't specified, Bordeaux wines commonly include varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, known for their robust structure and rich fruit character. The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux experienced a relatively warm and dry spring followed by a wet summer, leading to a balanced crop that producers carefully crafted into elegant, age-worthy wines.
The Bordeaux region, steeped in winemaking history, boasts a maritime climate moderated by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. This influence, along with the Gironde estuary, ensures mild winters and warm, not overly hot, summers, creating ideal conditions for viticulture. Bordeaux has long been renowned for producing some of the world's most prestigious wines, with a vinous heritage that dates back centuries.
Château La Clarière 2011 pairs wonderfully with classic French dishes featuring rich flavours. Consider pairing it with slow-cooked beef dishes such as boeuf bourguignon or beef en croûte for a traditional culinary experience. The wine's complex nature also complements roasted lamb with herbs or a selection of aged French cheeses like Comté or Camembert, accentuating its deep fruit and earthy nuances.
For an optimal tasting experience, serve this wine slightly below room temperature. Aim for a serving temperature of around 16-18°C, which allows its nuanced bouquet of dark fruits and subtle earthy aromas to shine. Decanting the wine a couple of hours before serving will also help to aerate the wine, enhancing its aromatic profile and silky tannins.
