Lafayette (France) Bordeaux Merlot
This is a new wine launched by Bibendum wines from the ‘right bank’ of Bordeaux. Although no vintage is given, the stuff in the bottle is predominantly from 2001, with some reserve oak-aged Merlot added into the blend. The idea is that the wine is a fruit-driven style, but with added complexity and structure from the barrique-aged component. The nose is quite savoury, with nuances of cedary, earthy perfume to straightforward plum and cherry fruit. The wine really comes alive in the mouth, where a fine, juicy, crisp character is enlivened by precise tannins and good acidity, supporting supple, fleshy red berry fruit. This is a fresh, food-friendly style of claret, but is not a lightweight, with good presence and plenty of fruity character. £4.99 Tesco.
