Spring Sensation From Christine Nadalié

Spring sensation from a Cru Bourgeois gem winemaker, Christine Nadalié.

ᴄʟᴏꜱ ʟᴀ ʙᴏʜÈᴍᴇ ᴄʀᴜ ʙᴏᴜʀɢᴇᴏɪꜱ 2015

She’s not your typical oenologist - she has the “secret of the wood” in her blood, she comes from over 5 generations of coopers Nadalié Tonnellerie (aka wine barrel artisans) she is just as passionate about winemaking as she is about the barrels. Certified organic, sustainable farming, all the good stuff we love to hear when it comes to artisanal wine.

The 8 hectare estate is in Ludon-Médoc, near Margaux (this is an important point). Margaux is a highly prized region of Bordeaux and her estate is a stones throw from the southeastern border of the region. The soils, climate, aspect etc will all be the same - do I smell an incredible gem? Absolutely! The estate runs along the Garonne in Macau-en-Médo. The vines are planted in the the regional (and happy place for Cabernet Sauvignon) thick gravel soils of Haut Medoc. This particular cuvée is from Clos la Bohème, a ‘Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc’ which demonstrates the quality offered by Médoc’s second tier.

A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot from vines with an average age of 38 years. Her Clos is the smallest in the region and is highly expressive. Traditional vinification both wood and concrete vats for four weeks followed by aeging in barrels and casks made in the family French oak barrels for 20 months.

Pours into the glass a hypnotizing ruby gem of a wine. As you pour the aromas grab your attention with ripe black fruits and savory earthiness. As you swirl the bouquet leads to just as ripe red fruits, eucalyptus, cedar, bramble, cigar box and mint. The first sip is the showstopper - this is where you discover how well integrated every element of the wine is. Christine’s marriage of the best characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are harmonious. The ample fruit found on the nose - blackberry, blackcurrant, black and red cherry, red plum, lead the way. A potpourri of spice and delight follow with mint, licorice, black pepper is a caressing way. The tannins are fine grained and well defined, her precise use of oak is a stunning presentation. The freshness meets fluidity of self. This Bordeaux should always be on hand - an elegant beauty with a lovely concentration.

Pair with a chargrilled steak, portobello mushroom cheddar burgers or lamb chops with cherry compote.

Check out our live discussion: Clos La Boheme Live