2000 Chateau Peyraud

[Innkeeper]

2000 Chateau Peyraud, Premier Cotes de Blaye ($8.99 Blue Hill Wine Shop). Alcohol 12%. This East Bank blend is produced primarily from Merlot (90 %) with splashes of Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc, and is fermented in concrete vats. It gives blackberry jam and eucalyptus on the nose and upfront. Some minerality, more fruit and earth with black tea notes cross the palate, and the finish is wonderful. This is not a Bordeaux for the next decade, but it is delicious now and for up to the next three years. If you can find some, get it and invite those over who say they enjoy Merlot! We matched it with broiled fillet steaks seasoned with OO and Morton Rub, and a nice salad.