Introduction:
The 2020 Château Mondésir Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux is a polished and expressive right-bank red from one of Bordeaux’s more under-the-radar appellations. With a strong Merlot base and a dash of Malbec, it delivers richness, structure, and finesse—showcasing both ripe fruit and earthy charm.
Terroir:
The estate sits near the village of Plassac, in the Blaye subregion of Bordeaux, overlooking the Gironde estuary. Vines grow on clay-limestone soils with excellent drainage, benefiting from maritime influences and broad temperature shifts. This setting enables a longer ripening period, promoting balanced sugar and phenolic development.
Appearance:
The wine pours a vibrant ruby-garnet color with moderate opacity, showing youth and concentration. Its rim is clean and bright, hinting at freshness and careful winemaking.
Nose:
Aromatically, the wine leads with ripe black cherry, plum, and red currant, supported by notes of tobacco leaf, cedar, and baking spice. Subtle earthy tones and graphite round out the bouquet, signaling a blend of fruit and structure.
Palate:
The palate delivers juicy dark fruit—black cherry, damson plum, and red berries—framed by medium tannins and brisk acidity. Notes of cocoa, vanilla, and fresh herbs complement the fruit, while oak influence adds texture without dominating. The body is medium-full, balanced and smooth.
Finish:
The finish is clean and persistent, with lingering notes of dark fruit, light oak spice, and a touch of dried herbs. The tannins are well-integrated, giving structure and ageability.
Overall Impression:
The 2020 Château Mondésir is a strong example of modern right-bank Bordeaux: accessible, fruit-forward, and well-structured. It offers both depth and drinkability, making it a versatile table wine with enough character to satisfy Bordeaux lovers. Ready to enjoy now, but should evolve nicely over the next 5–7 years.
Food Pairing Suggestions:
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Meat dish: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary or classic beef stew — both complement the wine’s fruit depth and earthy backbone.
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Vegetarian option: Mushroom and lentil shepherd’s pie or roasted eggplant with tomato and thyme — dishes that mirror the wine’s savory and herbal notes.
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Cheese pairing: Aged Comté or firm goat’s cheese — both play off the wine’s structure and subtle minerality.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.5%
Farming Practices: Traditional estate farming
Producer Name: Château Mondésir-Gazin
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux
Grape Varietals: Merlot (~80%), Malbec (~20%)
Vintage: 2020
Wine Style: Dry red; dark-fruit rich, subtly spiced with savory depth. Medium-full body.
Winemaking Techniques: Aged 12 months in oak barrels (25% new), followed by 6 months in concrete vats to soften tannins and enhance texture
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork