Red wine | Bordeaux
Allow me to introduce you to a classic representative of Bordeaux: the Château Ballue-Mondon Bordeaux. This wine hails from the prestigious Bordeaux region in France, known worldwide for its exceptional red wines. Château Ballue-Mondon itself is a well-regarded producer that embodies the region’s rich winemaking heritage. This particular vintage, the 2019, is a testament to their dedication to quality and tradition.
This is a traditional Bordeaux blend, typically composed of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Merlot provides the wine with its soft, plummy fruit character, while Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure, tannins, and notes of black currant. The small percentage of Cabernet Franc contributes complexity and finesse to the blend with hints of spice and floral notes. The wine is dry, with the fruit, such as plum and dark cherry, being nicely balanced by earthy undertones and a touch of oak.
The 2019 vintage was a good one for Bordeaux, and it has resulted in a wine that is approachable in its youth but also has the capacity to age. The wine presents an average alcohol by volume (ABV) of 13.5%. The recommended serving temperature for a wine like this is 18°C (64°F), which will allow it to open up and express its full range of flavors. In terms of aging, it is recommendable to give this wine around 15 minutes to breathe. When it comes to bottle, you find this wine with a cork, so if you plan to keep it for a bit, please make sure to store it properly to avoid the cork drying up and oxidizing the wine too soon.
What makes this wine special? Well, it’s a true taste of Bordeaux, showcasing the region's capability to produce balanced wines with structure and elegance. The winery, Chateau Ballue-Mondon, is not one of the biggest or most famous, but it stands out with traditional methods, with a classic production style that honors the appellation.
As for food pairings, this wine is very versatile. Its structure and tannins make it a great match for grilled meats, such as steak, lamb, or duck. It also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, hearty stews, or mushroom-based dishes. For cheese, consider something like aged gouda or brie. This wine, for its style and region, would be perfect for a dinner with friends or a nice relaxing evening at home.
Consider having this wine as a companion to a special occasion. It has a community rating of 3.8 out of 5, and an expert rating of 87 out of 100 points, making it a reputable pick to drink and share.