Domaine Les Carmels "Les Caprices" Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux Rouge '22

Bordeaux and its neighboring appellations may not be among the first areas that spring to mind when thinking of versatile wines for everyday drinking. For several decades, the region has been characterized by a recipe that still appeals to many wine drinkers, but some also have veered toward wines with more versatile pairing options, the styles that are closer to what one might expect from an everyday yet still soulful bistro wine.

But changes are afoot, driven by domaines like Les Carmels: certified organic and practicing biodynamic viticulture, making affordable, easy-drinking wines that are softly extracted, without no new oak, and very low in sulfur. 

The Domaine Les Caramels 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 are 100% 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. This is a perfect red for any occasion, as it can pair with so many different foods but also tastes great on its own.