Château Franc Couplet 2020 is a classic red Bordeaux Supérieur, crafted in the expansive Bordeaux region of southwest France. This wine is typically a blend dominated by Merlot, often supported by Cabernet Sauvignon and sometimes Cabernet Franc, lending it both approachability and complexity. The 2020 vintage is notable for its favourable weather conditions, with a warm growing season that contributed to ripe, healthy grapes and an expressive character in the bottle. The terroir for Bordeaux Supérieur encompasses a variety of soils, often clay and limestone, which contributes to the generous structure and supple tannins of the finished wine. Vinification usually involves traditional techniques such as fermentation in stainless steel for freshness, sometimes with partial ageing in oak to impart subtle notes of spice and enhance mouthfeel.
Situated in one of France's most renowned wine regions, Bordeaux has a temperate maritime climate heavily influenced by the nearby Atlantic, moderating both summer heat and winter chill. This ensures a long, even ripening period for the grapes, essential for the nuanced flavour and balance for which Bordeaux is celebrated. The soils are diverse but often gravelly, sandy, or clay-based, which allows vineyards like Château Franc Couplet to cultivate structured, elegant wines that age gracefully. Bordeaux’s rich viticultural history dates back to Roman times; “Bordeaux Supérieur” denotes stricter regulations than generic Bordeaux, promising lower yields and higher quality standards.
Château Franc Couplet 2020’s fleshy fruit profile and supple tannins pair beautifully with classic regional fare like duck confit, entrecôte bordelaise (steak with a red wine and shallot sauce), or a hearty lamb stew. Its balanced acidity also complements game birds or roasted poultry, while its soft but present structure makes it a friendly companion to cheeses such as Cantal or Saint-Nectaire. For a lighter pairing, try it with mushroom-based dishes, grilled vegetables, or a simple charcuterie platter.
To make the most of its generous fruit and silky texture, serve this wine slightly cool, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for thirty minutes will help open up its bouquet and smooth out youthful tannins, making for an enjoyably rounded tasting experience.
