From: Francs Cotes de Bordeaux, France
Varietal: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Bordeaux’s Côtes can be a treasure trove of brilliant value, honestly made Bordeaux, especially when they’re in the hands of talented vignerons such as Carine and Franck Richard.
Although its clay-limestone soils are identical to those of neighboring Castillon, Francs Côtes de Bordeaux’s vineyards are higher up (107-127m) which helps keep freshness in the wines, and the rainfall is one of the lowest in the region due to local airstreams, allowing cabernet to ripen properly.
Taking over the domaine in 1998, Franck and his wife immediately began farming organically, obtaining certification with the 2010 vintage. Most of the vines inherited from the previous generation are still there and their average age is now 45yo which would put many Grand Cru Classé to shame. Vinification and élevage are as gentle as possible, the aim being to make wines that are pure and express all the freshness of their terroir.
