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Bordeaux 2008 and 2009

I had the privilege of visiting Bordeaux in September 2009. The 2008 vintage turned out to be much better than expected. The great chateaux probably deserve a great-perfect score. Every property suggested that the 2009 would be even better if the weather held up. Petrus, Canon La Gaffeliere, Figeac, Latour, Haut Brion, Margaux, among others let us eat ripe Merlot grapes.

The caveat is that the prices may be higher than wholesalers, retailers and consumers would like to pay. That said, Bordeaux is the singularly most devoted to wine grape cultivation and vinification. There are over 12,000 chateaus! The entire region is blanketed with grapes or is forested!

More later on the actual description of wines tasted.

Cellar Picks
Seven Hills Syrah Walla Walla 2008
The Magnificent Wine Company, The Originals Syrah, 2007 (Walla Walla WA.) $22
Apex, Merlot, 2006 (Sunnyside, WA.) $35
Penfolds, Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2007 (Australia) $33
Castello di Gabbiano, Chianti Classico Reserva DOCG, 2006 (Tuscany, Italy) $22
complete list

Value Picks
Maryhill Winemaker's Red
StoneCap Syrah 2009
Murphy Goode Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Cupcake Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2008 (Central Coast, CA.) $14
Robert Mondavi Private Selection, Sauvignon Blanc, 2009 (CA.) $11
complete list