Château des Antonins, Bordeaux Supérieur 2022

This is a Bordeaux Supérieur more about claret’s refined strengths – shape, balance and poise. Deep black cherry and blackcurrant sit at the core, with, even though it's unoaked, a gentle hint of toast and tobacco in the background. The soft, fine-grained tannins add the structure and smoothness that frames the fruit well making this well put together.

Spot on with roast lamb – especially with garlic and herbs – where the black fruit, gentle grip and unoaked character work with the richness of the meat. Also good with roast beef, grills or even sausage and mash.

Château des Antonins derives its name from the Antonine monks who lived there for centuries, with some of the original 13th-century buildings still standing on the estate. The current owners, the de Roquefeuil family, took over in 1985 and have since transitioned the estate to sustainable practices. Most of their vineyards are planted with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, producing some excellent reds. They also have a few hectares of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, which go into their good value whites that deserve equal billing to the reds.