In the heart of the Médoc, Château Les Grands Chênes 2021 celebrates the art of a Bordeaux red that is both classic and contemporary. Under the direction of Bernard Magrez, this cuvée reflects a demanding vision of the Cru Bourgeois, where the precision of the blend meets the pure expression of the fruit. A finely chiselled vintage, 2021 delivers a style of balance and energy, ideal for those seeking a Médoc that seduces right away without sacrificing depth. Merlot in majority for juicy flesh, Cabernet Sauvignon for length and structure, together composing a wine with an elegant silhouette, edged with discreet oak. The bouquet, nuanced with dark and red fruits, is laced with fine spicy notes that testify to measured ageing. Led by the oenological expertise of Rolland & Associés, this 2021 impressed the specialist press, notably praised by Terre de Vins (92-93), James Suckling (90), Decanter (89), Vinous and Wine Advocate. More than a label, a signature, a Médoc of character that favours harmony, elegance and refined drinkability.

Blend and vinification

The wine is made from a precise blend of Merlot (60 %) and Cabernet Sauvignon (40 %), emblematic varieties of the left bank. The vines benefit from attentive agronomic monitoring, with Bordeaux pruning, reasoned plant protection, double-sided leaf thinning in July and inter-row soil work, to obtain healthy, fully ripe grapes. Vinification is carefully conducted to preserve the brightness of the fruit and the uprightness of the structure. Controlled ageing provides a light oak character that highlights without hiding, and contributes to the finesse of the tannins. The result is a Médoc red true to its terroir: clean, precise, built for pleasure and balance.

Tasting notes

• Colour: Deep ruby with violet highlights, bright and clear, promising precise fruit and measured extraction.
• Nose: Blackcurrant and blackberry dominate, joined by cherry, a breath of vanilla and a hint of liquorice, over discreet oak that integrates elegantly.
• Palate: Soft and direct attack, juicy mid-palate, silky, well-knit tannins. The whole combines freshness and density, with a savoury finish on black fruit and liquorice.

Serving temperature and advice

Serve between 16 and 20°C in large-bowled glasses to reveal the bouquet. A short decanting or gentle aeration a few minutes before serving allows the fruit and spices to unfurl gracefully. Store your bottles away from light, at a stable temperature, to let the wine mature serenely. Its balanced structure allows enjoyment now while offering a pleasant development over a few years, depending on your patience and preferences.

Food pairing

• Delicious starters: fine rillettes, country terrine, matured ham, quality olives.
• Red meats: grilled ribeye or côte de bœuf, duck breast, hanger steak with shallots.
• White meats and lamb: pink rack of lamb, roast veal, free-range poultry with reduced jus.
• Robust dishes: lamb tagine with prunes, duck shepherd's pie, porcini risotto.
• Cheeses: aged comté, tomme de Savoie, saint-nectaire, farmhouse brie.

Drinking occasions

Château Les Grands Chênes 2021 is the ideal companion:

• For a dinner among connoisseurs celebrating the precision of a Médoc classic.
• At a generous Sunday table, alongside a slow-cooked dish that invites conviviality.
• As an elegant gift for a Bordeaux lover who appreciates balance and finesse.

Specifications

• Name: Château Les Grands Chênes 2021
• Appellation: Médoc AOC
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois
• Type: Red wine
• Vintage: 2021
• Grapes: Merlot 60 %, Cabernet Sauvignon 40 %
• Alcohol: 13 % vol.
• Oenology: Rolland & Associés
• Viticulture: taille bordelaise, lutte raisonnée, effeuillage double faces en juillet, travail du sol en inter-rang
• Serving temperature: 16–20°C
• Press scores: Terre de Vins 92-93, James Suckling 90, Decanter 89, Vinous 87-89, Wine Advocate 87-89