Château Tronquoy 2023

Château Tronquoy is a red from AOC Saint-Estèphe in the north of Bordeaux's left bank, made by Château Tronquoy-Lalande from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Saint-Estèphe sits on gravel over a base of cooler clay, which retains water and gives the appellation its characteristic firm structure and dark fruit. The gravel mounds drain freely and store daytime heat, ripening Cabernet Sauvignon, while the clay suits Merlot and lends body. Petit Verdot adds colour, spice and tannic backbone in the warmer years. The wine ages twelve months in oak barrels, where gradual oxygen exchange through the staves softens the firm tannin and integrates smoke and spice with the fruit. The colour is deep red. The nose is classic and fresh, with cherry, dark plum, floral and minty notes and a hint of smoke. The palate is medium bodied, fresh and supple, with fine tannin and a savoury, structured finish in the Saint-Estèphe mould. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant an hour ahead. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and earthy mushroom dishes.