Phenomenal Bordeaux Duo from the Entre deux Mers

A glass of wine is perhaps the only beverage on the planet that’s able to elicit such a specific allusion to its origins, evoking memories of travel to villages and vineyards all over the world. Today’s featured wines bring a little of Bordeaux right here to us in Western North Carolina — courtesy of my friend, importer Jean-Christian Rostagni.

Between the Seas

Entre-Deux-Mers –literally, between two seas– is one of the largest areas under vine in Bordeaux, located between the “inland seas” of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. The region is responsible for the vast majority of Bordeaux AOC and Bordeaux Supérieur wines; however, the terrific Whites and Rosé produced here offer superb quality at bargain prices and should be on the radar of every wine-lover.

Generations of great wines

Jean-Thomas Doublet -- Photo: Jean-Christian Rostagni

The Doublet family has been devoted to winemaking in the Entre-Deux-Mers region of Bordeaux since the late 1700s. The generations of love and attention to their 70 hectares of vineyards are evident in the quality of the wines produced — their White Bordeaux and Bordeaux Rosé are absolute standouts!

Château Vignol has been in the Doublet family since the late 18th century. Bernard and Dominique Doublet are the current owners of the Château and run the property along with sons Alexandre and Jean-Thomas. Their vineyards are in the heart of the Entre-Deux-Mers, just 15 kilometers from Saint Emilion and planted on gravel and limestone soil.

There's a Southern feel to Château Vignol -- one of the original family members was very influenced by a trip to Southern U.S
-- Photo: Jean-Christian Rostagni
Château Vignol Bordeaux Blanc
When I first discovered French wine in the late ’70s, more often than not, a Bordeaux Blanc was a regular resident in my refrigerator. In the glass, Vignol Blanc is what I remember from years back! I love the classic old-school vibe of this wine — made in a very traditional way with Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, Semillion, and Muscadelle. Sauvignon Blanc provides the razor edge and explosive citrus aromas, Semillion and Sauvignon Gris provide roundness and richness, and Muscadelle provides the gentle floral notes.
 
In the glass, notes of orchard fruits, and white flowers, especially elderflower, open to a juicy palate of gooseberry and tropical fruit finishing with clean citrus notes. The harmonious balance of lush ripeness and ample, fresh acidity makes this an incredibly versatile white. Enjoy it on the porch or by the pool, and pair it with seafood and white meats.
 
Château Vignol Bordeaux Rosé
It’s no longer a secret: Rosé is here and here to stay! While not a secret, Rosé from Bordeaux is still pretty far off of everyone’s radar. Almost every French wine-producing region makes great Rosé, and Bordeaux is no exception. 
 
Château Vignol Bordeaux Rosé in the glass is a gorgeous pale salmon color with vibrant and inviting tones of red currant, summer berries, and cut flowers. The expressive nose introduces a lively and refreshing palate with a finish that leaves you yearning for another sip. I love the ever so gentle hint of structure, making this Rosé equally useful as a porch-sipper and as a culinary companion.
 
Grab a mixed case of these for the summer!

Château Vignol
Bordeaux Blanc -- Bordeaux Rosé

Entre deux Mers, Bordeaux, France
$ 17
99
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