Les Asteries Saint Emilion Grand Cru 2007

Cellar for up to 20 years. Decant for 2 hours or more before serving. Les Asteries is a single vineyard Bordeaux wine, harvested from limestone-rich soils between Chateau Fonroque and Clos Fourtet in the heart of Saint Emilion. It begins with a nose of blackberry and blackcurrant, with a rich undertone of cocoa, coffee, leather, and prune. It is a classic Saint Emilion blend, composed of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc. Les Asteries is a 1.2-hectare vineyard, with vines as old as eighty years. In 2005, it was acquired by Jonathan Maltus, an English winemaker with a patchwork selection of premium vineyards all across Saint Emilion - including the ones behind Le Carre, Chateau Laforge, and Chateau Teyssier. The latter is where the grapes from Les Asteries are actually fermented, in 100% new French oak barrels. This silky blend hits the palate with a medley of black and red fruits - look for raspberry and cassis among the earthy notes of leather, coffee, and baking spice. It has a medium- to full-bodied mouthfeel, with gorgeous, round tannins and incisive acidity. It’s also a deeply versatile wine, suitable for pairing with an equally mature cheese, tender meat cuts, or a tomato-rich broth.

Price: £82.36 from 8wines UK