Six Bordeaux alternatives to try
Bordeaux is a cornerstone of the fine wine world and for many years has been a reference point for others around the world - with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot so widely planted. Here are some alternatives if you like Bordeaux and are wondering what else can compete for your attention...
The structure and complexity of a top Bordeaux wine – whether Left Bank Cabernet Sauvignon or Right Bank Merlot – is still a vanguard of wine quality in the world, whatever your views on the release prices of some high-end growths.
Decanter’s Tasting team has picked out six impressive Bordeaux alternatives from around the world.
Some are led by Cabernet or Merlot, but others have a varietal twist for Bordeaux lovers looking for something a bit different within a similar stylistic bracket.
Six Bordeaux alternatives:
Opus One, Napa Valley, Oakville, California, USA, 2012
A near-ideal vintage, where all parts were perfect. Here we are at full peak Opus; satin-like in texture, packed with cassis, bilberry and crushed raspberry fruits, not overly concentrated but confident enough to take on its Californian peers. A sunny juicy richness to the wine is just lovely, and a menthol mouth watering finish makes this pretty irresistable. 2% Malbec, 6% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 18 days skin contact.
2012
Opus OneNapa Valley
De Toren, Fusion V, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2016
Showcasing the Cape’s ability to turn out great Left Bank-style blends is this Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant wine from Stellenbosch’s De Toren Private Cellar. Fusion V, the boutique winery’s flagship label, takes its name for its selection of the best of Bordeaux’s ‘noble 5’ grape varieties that comprise the blend; 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Malbec, 14% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot. A rich and concentrated wine filled with mixed red and black berries, hints of dark chocolate and an oak-spiciness around the edges. It has a lovely smooth texture and is extremely drinkable. A great recommendation from one of the sommeliers at The Butcher Shop restaurant and deli in Cape Town, where it's also available to purchase. De Toren wines available from UK importer The Wine Treasury.
2016
De Toren
Vasse Felix, Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia, 2012
Dr Tom Cullity, Vasse Felix’s founder and a Margaret River pioneer, focussed on Cabernet Sauvignon from the off; Vasse Felix has made a Cabernet every year since 1972. The 2012 blend comprises 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. It is a spicy, gravelly Cabernet with dried herbs, balsamic and chocolate notes to its bright, juicy blackcurrant and plum fruit. The fine tannins are polished and very elegant.
2012
Vasse FelixMargaret River
Esk Valley, Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, 2015
Gimblett Gravels is renowned for the quality of its Bordeaux blends. This example shows the typical freshness of the region, with a mint, black fruit and dried herb nose. The elegant palate combines smooth, intense dark fruits with a refreshing acidity.
2015
Esk ValleyGimblett Gravels
Bodegas Epifanio Rivera, Erial Tradicion Familia, Ribera del Duero, Castilla y Léon, Spain, 2013
The Erial Tradicion Familia uses 80 year old vines to perfection, producing a full and concentrated fruit profile. Blackcurrant and plum flavours are framed by silky tannins, while 18 months spent in oak has added a spice and cedar complexity.
2013
Bodegas Epifanio RiveraRibera del Duero
Franco Mondo, Di Vino, Monferrato, Piedmont, Italy, 2013
A blend of 70% Barbera and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, some of which is dried using the appassimento technique to concentrate the flavours and sugars. This wine starts with aromas of cherries and raspberries. Red fruits are joined on the palate by black fruits, grippy tannins and a gamey character on the finish. A great left-field alternative to right bank Bordeaux.
2013
Franco MondoMonferrato
