Domaine Les Carmels "Les Caprices" Cadillac Côtes de Bourdeaux Rouge '21

One can’t say that Bordeaux and its neighboring appellations have been at the forefront of the organic and biodynamic movements. Furthermore, for more than two decades, the region was hanging on to a recipe that may have been successful (ripe, heavily new oaked, technological wines) but that many wine aficionados no longer find to their taste. Consequently, Bordeaux and friends are scarce on the wine lists of most of the hot new bistros, where you will find two dozen Gamays and Poulsards before you spot a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, if you spot any at all. For a region that once dominated French wine sales, it is a spectacular fall from grace.

But things are definitely changing, with domaines like Les Carmels: certified organic, practicing biodynamic, affordable, and made in a softly extracted, no new oak, very low sulfur, and beautifully quaffable style. 

The domaine is located in Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux and comprises six hectares (about 15 acres) of land. “Les Caprices” is based on Merlot vines planted in the early 1980s and the early 2000s. Viticulture at the domaine is certified organic (since 2010) and biodynamic methods are used. The grapes for this wine are100% destemmed, and fermentation is carried out with ambient yeast. The wine is aged 4–6 months in stainless steel to highlight the delicacy and freshness of the wine. (Background info from the importer Becky Wasserman & Co.)

This is one of the best new arrivals that we have tasted from Bordeaux. A perfect red for any occasion, it can pair with so many different foods but also tastes great on its own. Don’t miss it!