Domaine Les Carmels Cadillac Cotes de Bordeaux Les Caprices 2020

Dry; dusty, somewhat astringent tannins on pop-and-pour. Significantly improves with decanting. No oak influence “in order to highlight finesse and freshness of our terroir” according to the tech sheet. The cuvée spends up to six months in stainless steel vats; 14.5% ABV. Côtes de Bordeaux wines generally are consumed young; this one is ready to be enjoyed after decanting.

This is pure merlot play, not a Bordeaux blend. Loads of dark fruit. Pure merlot play. Really improves with decanting, evolving into tasty dark cherry and dark plum easy drinker. Pair with hearty red meats; roast beef; rib steak; braised short ribs; wild game; duck; pork shoulder; roasted mushrooms.