Chateau Cantemerle 2006

Winery: Chateau Cantemerle

Vintage: 2006

Appellation: Haut-Medoc

Varietal: 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc

Oak: 18 months new and old French oak

Average Price: $20.00


Tasting notes: This is a pretty dark Haut-Medoc. The nose shows hints of menthol and dark berries. Cantemerle did not used to be my favorite claret, but with this 2006 vintage the Chateau is becoming quite strong. Good length on the palate, good fruity structure, velvety tannins and excellent depth. Drink this wine now and over the next 12-15 years. This is a wine to party with!

Food Pairing Suggestions: I had a good experience with this combination: Culottes of veal with haricoverts, pearl onions, fried potatoes and sherry sauce. I wouldn't cry either for a course with Breast of duck, pommes anna, mushrooms, brussels sprouts and a good strong red wine sauce. Yummy!

Winery Notes: Cantemerle has improved quite a lot over the last few years. The Chateau has never been in the expensive end of clarets, but I think with the 2006 vintage they nailed an excellent value claret! An instant favorite of mine. Avoid the 2005 vintage from Cantemerle, it is a bit too expensive, the 2004 is also excellent, but with the price tag at $20 for 2006, why bother?