Entre-Deux-Mers translates to, “between two seas,” but it is actually a stretch of land that is wedged between the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers that dominate the landscape of Bordeaux. Somewhat of an island between the famed left and right bank, the appellation is only labeled as an AOC for white wines while the red wines are classified simply as Bordeaux or Bordeaux Supérieur. What these wines lack in label recognition, they can often make up for in price-to-quality when crafted in the right hands. In fact, Entre-Deux-Mers led the region in technological progress in the fields and cellar starting in the 1950’s. At the helm of one of the most long-lived estates is the Despagne Family.
The Despagnes have been vignerons in Entre-Deux-Mers for over 250 years. However, it wasn’t until 1969 that Jean-Louis Despagne began crafting his own wines from the family estate. After obtaining a degree in enology from the University of Bordeaux where he studied under Émile Peynaud and Jean Ribereau-Gayon, Jean-Louis got some serious hands-on experience in Africa and South America. Today, his family’s estate has only increased in size and reputation. The ‘Cuvée Passion’ Bordeaux Rouge we are offering is derived from the pitch-perfect 2010 vintage and is blend of 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 70% Merlot. The wine completed malolactic fermentation and aged for ten months in new French oak barrels before bottling. The result is a modern expression of Bordeaux at a value that you can be proud to stock in your cellar.
The 2010 Cuvée Passion displays an opaque, dark crimson core with slight orange reflections on the rim. Dense and ripe aromas of black cherry, blackcurrant and blackberry are laced with violets, leather, tobacco, a touch of coffee, sweet vanilla bean and soft wet clay. The near full-bodied palate envelops the tongue with incredibly silky, soft tannins and a slightly modern flavor profile of black fruit that confirms the nose. It's layered with notes of new oak spices, leather, cedar and wet turned earth. This wine does not need much air, but will benefit from 30 minutes in a decanter. Serve at 60 degrees in Bordeaux stems alongside a steakhouse classic such as this
Porterhouse accompanied by sautéed mushrooms and roasted potatoes.
