2019 Château Respide Medeville Graves

Bordeaux, France

Julie and Xavier Gonet-Médeville both hail from storied winemaking families: Julie’s family is famous for its incomparable Chateau Gilette, and Xavier comes from a long line of Champagne growers. Today, they coax great Graves Blanc and Rouge from the sandy, gravelly clay soil, allowing the purity of the fruit to shine through. From their 11-hectare vineyard, Julie and Xavier blend 60% Cabernet Sauvignon with 40% Merlot for this remarkably polished, yet af- fordable, grand vin. Grapes are hand-harvested and macerated, 20% whole cluster, in stainless steel vats. Malolactic fermentation takes place separately: 50% of the fermented blend is aged in new oak for 12 months, while 50% continues to age in vats. Loaded with dark ripe fruit notes, this Cab-dominant wine is full-bodied and plush, with flavors of black currant, licorice, spice, and leather. Bring on the red meat!