Chateau Les Aubret Cotes de Bourg 1996

From the traditional trio of Bordeaux grapes: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the 1996 Chateau Les Aubret exhibits a deep, regal robe and beautiful intensity. An amplifying bouquet of minerals, earth and red fruits: blueberry, currant and cassis mingle with cedar and spice in this concentrated, fleshy, full-flavored wine. Deep and harmonious, it is quite drinkable now, but it should continue to improve for several more years. Allow the wine to breathe at least one hour before serving.

Cornish game hens, roast chicken, rabbit and lamb, all make for fine pairings with the Les Aubret. Good Bordeaux is one of the most complex wines brought to a table; consequently, it deserves food to match its noble bearing.

Situated on the right bank (north side) of the Gironde River, the Cotes de Bourg is home to many fine, old Bordeaux estates. Located just a few minutes away by boat from the renowned appellation of Margaux, the Cotes de Bourg remains some of Bordeaux’s more beautiful, unspoiled countryside. This lovely appellation is also one of the most historic wine regions in France, having served as the center of the "bone of contention" between France and England during the Hundred Years War. Not surprisingly, many medieval chateaux dot the hilly landscape of the Cote de Bourg. Chateaux Les Aubret is one of the Cotes de Bourg’s little jewels. Produced from the Vignobles Magdeleine, this estate benefits from J.L. Magdeleine’s know-how and reputation in making one of the best wines of the appellation. The vineyard is located on high, sunny slopes of deep gravel soil in the village of Tauriac, just five kilometers from the ancient hillside town of Bourg sur Gironde. By practicing a strict pruning for low yields, a traditional five week vatting time, and aging in both stainless steel and oak barrel Chateaux Les Aubret produces a concentrated, structured wine with significant aging potential.