2016 Chateau Barreyres Haut-Medoc Cru Bourgeois

One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.

While it claims the same basic landscape as the Medoc—only every so slightly elevated above river level—the Haut Medoc is home to all of the magnificent chateaux of the Left Bank of Bordeaux, creating no lack of beautiful sites to see. These chateaux, residing over the classed-growth cru in the villages of Margaux, Moulis, Listrac, St-Julien, Pauillac and St. Estephe are within the Haut Medoc appellation. Though within the confines of these villages, any classed-growth chateaux will most certainly claim village or cru status on their wine labels.

The Chateau Barreyres estate is dominated by a majestic stone building dating back to the 10th century. A real jewel of the Médoc, this property is enhanced by impressive grounds complete with a private lake. The estate was once the property of Baron Dupérier de Larsan, who cultivated some 50 hectares. Acquired by the Castel family in 1971, it has since undergone substantial modernisation and restructuring. Nestled between the hamlet of d’Arcins and the Gironde river, the location of the vineyard is ideal, perching as it does on the gentle slopes leading down to the estuary.