Chateau Bel Air Cuvee Divine Bordeaux Rouge 20

If you've been an AWM customer for more than a minute, chances are you already know that the Bordeaux wine region is famous worldwide for its rich history of viticulture and exceptional wines. Divided by the Gironde estuary into the Left Bank and Right Bank, each sub-region offers distinct terroirs and grape varietals, firmly cementing the allure of Bordeaux wines. In recent years, the Right Bank, particularly the Entre-Deux-Mers, has gained popularity among old-world wine lovers for its approachable and very affordable reds and whites.

Entre-Deux-Mers, translating to "between two seas," lies between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers, and its rolling hills and limestone-rich soils are perfect viticulture. This region is especially noted for producing elegant red blends that feature Merlot and Cabernet Franc in starring roles. These grape varieties thrive in the Right Bank's cooler climate and clay-limestone soils, producing softer, fruit-forward wines that are more accessible in their youth than their Left Bank counterparts. As cooler days and nights settle into Western North Carolina, it's a perfect time to explore the warmth and complexity of Right Bank reds.

The Mourgues family, owners of Château Bel-Air, make their home in the sleepy, rural Entre-Deux-Mers village of Landerrouat, located an 80-kilometer drive east of Bordeaux city. The family's winemaking roots go back to the 18th century, with the craft passed down from generation to generation. In 1954, Angéline and Régis Mourgues took over the family estate, including 6 hectares of vineyards.

In 1978, their son Patrick and his wife Joëlle came on board, and the family began slowly expanding the estate. By 2005, when Patrick and Joëlle's son Jerémy took over at the age of 25, the family's vineyard holdings had grown to nearly 180 hectares.

Raised in the vineyards, Jérémy developed a deep love for the science of viticulture and the art of winemaking at an early age, and he was determined to join his family's long line of vignerons. After completing his Oenology degree, he returned to the estate, bringing a fresh perspective to the family business. He and his wife Marilyne have two daughters, Heloise and Clarisse, who will write the next chapter of the family's vinous legacy.

Today managing an impressive 395 hectares (976 acres) spread across three Bordeaux appellations, the Mourgues family continues to operate as a 100% family-owned and operated entity. Their extensive estate allows them to nurture a variety of grape varieties and terroirs, contributing to the depth and complexity of their wines. Their hands-on approach and attention to detail ensure that each bottle embodies the essence of Bordeaux's rich winemaking heritage.

One of the Mourgues family's notable and happily most affordable creations is their Château Bel-Air "Prestige Divine," a Bordeaux cuvée that, for me, is textbook Right Bank in style. Grapes are sourced from choice vineyards in the Entre-Deux-Mers, where the vines benefit from optimal sun exposure and well-drained soils. The blend is carefully crafted, with Merlot in the starring role, lending a lush, fruit-forward profile, while Cabernet Franc plays the supporting role, adding aromatic complexity and depth.

In your glass, the vibrant ruby hue leads to enticing aromas of blackberry, cherry, and plum, mingling with subtle hints of violet, tobacco leaf, and just a whisper-light touch of oak-induced vanilla. The medium-bodied palate is framed by smooth tannins and ample lift that rides effortlessly through layers of juicy red and black fruits, delicate notes of earth and spice, and a lingering, elegant finish.

Château Bel-Air Bordeaux "Prestige Divine" is a versatile cuisine companion. Since it lives on the fuller end of medium-bodied reds, it's an excellent choice to accompany the slow Western North Carolina ride into the cooler months. It pairs like a champ with roasted lamb or pork, grilled steaks, and hearty stews, enhancing the savory flavors with its lifted fruit and soft structure. Mushroom risotto, roasted root veggies, or eggplant Parmesan would be terrific choices for vegetarian fare.

o1