Château Mouras Graves Rouge 2022

Graves sits on Bordeaux's Left Bank, though its wines behave differently to those from the Médoc further north. Médoc tends to be Cabernet-led and austere in youth, while Graves usually leans on Merlot for earlier generosity. In 2022 Château Mouras followed that script with a blend of 60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Petit Verdot. Dark berries and plum lead the way, oak brings a measured touch of spice, and there's a smoky, earthy thread that's very much Graves. The tannins are firm enough for structure but not forbidding, making this fuller in style than some Médoc reds yet easier to enjoy sooner.

Well matched with lamb, duck or game, its fruit, spice and savoury depth sitting comfortably alongside richer flavours.

Château Mouras is a small 6-hectare property with vineyards spread across the Graves communes of Portets, Illats, and Landiras, just south of Bordeaux. Owned by Jean-Christophe Barbe, professor of oenology at Bordeaux University and noted Sauternes producer at Château Laville, Château Mouras is a less well-known but no less noteworthy project. This small estate benefits from the unique gravelly soils of Graves, producing wines that reflect the minerality and structure of the region. It's a modest operation, but it quietly shines, showing Barbe's expertise stretches beyond the confines of his celebrated Sauternes.