It’s always good to find an affordable wine that really over-delivers. This is fantastic stuff, and it’s an utter bargain.
Château de Pennautier 2008 Cabardès, France
From a small (500 ha) appellation in the Languedoc, this is one of my bargain wines of the year. It shows distinctive, savoury, gravelly, structured dark fruits with good acidity and some earthy notes. There’s a lovely bloody, gravelly streak to this wine that reminds me of the southwest of France. Satisfying stuff with nice density and real appeal. 89/100 (£6.99 Majestic, but £5.99 if you buy two)
I wholeheartedly agree! I’ve also been impressed with the other wines in the Pennautier lineup, especially their Viognier.
Absolutely loved the 2007. Will pop out for some 2008 on your recommendation!
I’d like to think I know a little more than your average wine consumer (I’m reading your blog for a start so that shows some intent!), yet cannot think I am alone in having trouble deciphering the labels on French wine.
What do all the various constituent parts mean? Fundamentally what varietal is this wine? I know the French as a rule don’t put that on their wines so I was hoping that you might be so kind to do that for me Jamie 🙂
I can probably hazard a guess from the note that there’s possibly Grenache or some Malbec in here.
Cheers
Stuart
Not very user friendly, I admit – assumes you know what Cabardes is. That’s a big ask.
http://www.majestic.co.uk/find/keyword-is-cabardes/product-is-09409
reveals that it’s a blend including Cabernet, Shiraz, Merlot, Malbec and Grenache
Jamie,
Couldn’t agree more. I tasted this the other night and was blown away by the quality for what is a 6.99 wine.
If you want to want more about our wines, activities, accomodation, do visit our website!!!
I had lunch and a Cabardes wine to wash it down at the Chateau de Pennautier, last June outside in the sunshine. Absolutely the best way to enjoy it.
Might do it again this June.
Just had a couple of bottles (albeit 2009). Great stuff and great value. Cheers Jamie!