Chateau Bellevue Claribes Bordeaux Sainte Foy 2003

Living in an area that is dominated by the effects of the sea, the people of Bordeaux have always been drawn, mostly by necessity, to all things that are nautical. Shipyards dominate the coast and surfers flock to the Peninsula of Lege Cap-Ferret. The inland Gironde estuary attracts windsurfers thrilled by the winds and concurrent waves of the Mascaret. The Chaloupe, which graces our bottle, is a small sloop which, originally, was used to harvest the rich oysters, crab, and lobsters offshore. It is known currently as the craft-of-choice among the fashionable, young, vacationing gourmands who come to Bordeaux in search of the perfect day.

The 28 acres estate is planted to both vineyards and lush floral gardens. The wine produced from the vines is 66% Merlot for fruity roundness, 20% Carbernet Franc for structure, color and spice, and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon for lush cassis flavor and tannin. It is drinkable now or can be aged for 3-5 years.

In 2003, crop levels were very low, so the wines are very concentrated. With quantity low and quality very high, this is a rare bargain in an otherwise expensive vintage.

This wine pairs well with hearty stews, aged hard cheeses and all grilled meets.