Wines Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux Château Colombe - Grand Vin De Bordeaux - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Château Colombe 2023, Cuvée Grand Vin de Bordeaux, is a red wine hailing from the Castillon-côtes-de-bordeaux AOC, situated within the Le Libournais subregion of Bordeaux, France. This cuvée embodies the classic Bordeaux red blend, likely dominated by Merlot with possible additions of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, given the traditions of the area. The 2023 vintage is vivid and youthful, showing a deep ruby colour and promising a fresh yet structured palate. The wine is certified as “nature”, indicating an approach with minimal intervention both in the vineyard and cellar, respecting organic or biodynamic principles. Vinification here is designed to express the purity of the fruit, preserving both vibrancy and typicity from the exceptional Bordeaux terroir.

Castillon-côtes-de-bordeaux lies directly east of Saint-Émilion and is widely appreciated for producing wines with a similar profile but at a more approachable price point. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, influenced by the proximity of both the Dordogne river and the Atlantic. Summers are warm but not excessively hot, while mild winters safeguard the vines. The soils are a distinctive mix of limestone a top clay, which imparts freshness, minerality, and structure to the finished wines. The area has a rich history, with vineyards tracing back to the Middle Ages and offering a tapestry of small, dedicated producers alongside historic châteaux.

This wine’s approachable, fruit-forward style, combined with gentle structure and freshness, pairs beautifully with classic dishes such as roast lamb with Provençal herbs, confit de canard, or a traditional cassoulet. For a vegetarian option, consider a mushroom and lentil casserole or baked aubergine with tomato and thyme. Regional cheese such as Saint-Nectaire or Cantal would also work exceptionally well.

For optimal appreciation, serve Château Colombe 2023 at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes prior to serving can help open up the youthful aromatics and soften the tannins, allowing the wine to fully reveal its character in your glass.