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...
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...
2016
De Toren
Vasse Felix, Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, 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...
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...
2015
Esk ValleyGimblett Gravels
Bodegas Epifanio Rivera, Erial Tradicion Familia, Ribera del
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...
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...
2013
Franco MondoMonferrato
