Entre-Deux-Mers (Bordeaux)
The very first time that I heard of Château Cantelaudette wine was when a friend of mine brought it over one day and we were tasting the 2013 Bordeaux Blanc. Prior to that, I have to admit that white wines from Bordeaux were among my least favorite French whites. Most of the white Bordeaux I had tasted until then were made with mostly Sauvignon Blanc, and for my palate were a little too much on the citrus side. But when I had the Cantelaudette for the first time I found it to have depth with some complexity, but well balanced, a little minerally (which I like) and an easy drinking wine. I smelled white flowers and tasted melon, apricot and with just a hint of lemon. I loved it the first time I had it and when I learned that the price was under $15, that was even better. I also learned that the Cantelaudette Blanc was made with mostly Sémillon grapes, if not 100% Sémillon, which is unique from most white Bordeaux that include a larger percentage of the zesty Sauvignon Blanc.
Fast forward to summer 2018 when I was visiting Bordeaux for the first time and went to Vignobles Chatelier, the vineyard where Château Cantelaudette wine is made. I was greeted by cellar master Frédérique and Mr. Chatelier, the owner of the château. Both gentlemen were warm and friendly and took time out of their busy day to show me around the cellar and also the home where Mr. Chatelier lives and hosts dégustations (wine tastings).
The location is neither left or right bank Bordeaux, but in the central area called Entre-Deux-Mers which means ¨between the two seas¨. The small town where the vineyard is located is Graves-de-Vayres, known for its gravely soil (hence the name Graves) and produces both red and white wines.
I have to say that it was a pretty awesome experience to taste these beautiful wines with the cellar master himself and Mr. Chatelier, who by the way told me that he comes to Atlanta regularly for business. That is how I was able to have his wines in the first place, through his networking in Atlanta which ultimately brought his product to the shelves in Atlanta area stores. In addition to the Bordeaux Blanc, they also make a rosé which is very good and also a Merlot that is smooth and approachable.
I have to say that it was a pretty awesome experience to taste these beautiful wines with the cellar master himself and Mr. Chatelier, who by the way told me that he comes to Atlanta regularly for business. That is how I was able to have his wines in the first place, through his networking in Atlanta which ultimately brought his product to the shelves in Atlanta area stores. In addition to the Bordeaux Blanc, they also make a rosé which is very good and also a Merlot that is smooth and approachable.
On my next visit to the area, I hope to be able to stop by and say hello again to my new friends 🙂
