Jean-Pierre Moueix Bordeaux 2022

Jean-Pierre Moueix was a renowned merchant specialising in the finest reds of Bordeaux's right bank, along the Dordogne, and began making his own wines in the 1950s. This AOC Bordeaux follows that house style, leading with Merlot supported by Cabernet Franc. Merlot brings plush plum fruit and a rounded, supple texture, while Cabernet Franc adds redcurrant lift, a leafy freshness and structure. The grapes are carefully sorted, and the wine is aged in barrel, where slow oxygen exchange through the oak softens the tannins and adds cedar and a light cocoa note while knitting the blend together. The right-bank emphasis on Merlot suits the clay and limestone soils of the area, which retain water and ripen Merlot reliably. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows ripe plum, redcurrant and cherry over earth, cedar and a touch of cocoa. The palate is medium bodied and balanced, with soft, savoury tannins and a fresh, food-friendly finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, decanted for half an hour. It is a classic match for roast beef, lamb and mushroom dishes.