Yes the primeur tastings are all about discovering the new vintage but it’s also an opportunity to discover new wines.
Outside the main drag of the UGC (Union des Grands Cru) tastings there are a multitude of possibilities to discover, not just the new Bordeaux vintage, but wines from all over the world made by or consulted ‘on’ (not sure that’s the right expression but you know what I mean) Bordeaux wine makers and consultants. It’s also a great opportunity for Bordeaux chateaux to slip in their new babies.
This morning I tasted the delicious new wine from the Bonnie stable. The Bonnie family acquired Pessac Leognan Grand Cru Classé Château Malartic Lagravière in 1996, one of only 6 Pessac Léognan properties to be classified for both their red and their white wine. The investment in both the vineyard and the technical facility has now largely paid off in recent vintages, with this property becoming a leader in the appellation. In 2005 they also purchased a lesser-known neighbour, Chateau Gazin Roquencourt, and the 2010 vintage sees the first edition of the white Pessac Léognan from this property.
It is a tribute to the skills and lessons learnt at Malartic Lagravière; 100% Sauvignon it is an elegant and aromatic expression of the dry whites of the appellation – the production is tiny only 10 000 bottles will be offered – you have been warned!