Château La Grave (paul Barre)

Keep Wines

Vanderkous Vineyard Field Merlot Blend 2019

If Paul giamatti wrote this review

“Yes, it’s me—the guy who spent an entire movie trashing merlot. Miles Raymond is probably rolling in his fictional grave, but here I am, voluntarily drinking a field blend that’s predominantly merlot, and enjoying every damn sip. The Keep Wines 2019 Field Blend arrived at my table through sheer curiosity, and I took a sip expecting to confirm my old biases. Instead, I found complexity: dark cherry and plum grounded by earthy undertones and a hint of spice from what I suspect is some syrah in the mix.
This is what I missed all those years ago—merlot doesn’t have to be the villain. In the right hands, blended thoughtfully, it can be part of something genuinely beautiful. The tannins are soft but present, the finish clean and inviting. Not every wine needs to be a philosophical statement; sometimes it just needs to be good. Miles would hate this review, but I’m ordering another bottle.”
— 7 days ago

Château La Grave (Paul Barre)

Aux Caudelayres Fronsac Red Bordeaux Blend 2017

Lyle Fass
9.3

Lovely, ripe nose of cassis, huckleberry, tobacco, plum and spice. Lovey minerality. Very fine and refined. Palate is juicy and structured with lovely purity, length and balance. Really showing well. Love Fronsac when it is on. Outstanding length. Nose is bright and high toned. Such a lively bottle of Bordeaux. Great fruit soak on the finish and terrific mineral infused texture. 9.3. Maybe 9.4 with air. Much better than my last bottle. Nose has cocoa now. Big plum. Classic right bank satellite vibes. Unreal juiciness. Tangy cassis. — 4 years ago

Daniel, Matthew and 6 others liked this