Grands Crus to enjoy this Christmas : suggestions from a wine retailer
Christmas is just around the corner... The perfect occasion to pop open and enjoy delicious bottles! We headed to the Chai des Chartrons, a unique wine cellar located in the heart of one of Bordeaux's historic districts, to get tips on festive food and wine pairings
In an authentic barrel cellar on rue Minvielle, wine globetrotters Fabrice Dumont and Louis Navarre offer a wide selection of wines including numerous Bordeaux Great Growths. Read on to discover their suggestions to make your party season a success!
Dish: Scallop carpaccio with Giuseppe Giusti balsamic vinegar and olive oil
Why this pairing?
White Château de France displays a lovely bouquet of white fruit, citrus and buttery notes on the nose. Its roundness and liveliness go beautifully with the sweetness of scallops. The acidity of this balsamic vinegar, known to be the oldest and most authentic in the world, and the fruitiness of olive oil elevate the pairing to perfection.
Dish: Roast duck breast with cep mushrooms and red kuri squash purée
Why this pairing?
Combining silky tannins and floral notes with delicious hints of gunflint, this vintage from Château Poujeaux goes perfectly with the richness of medium-cooked duck breast and the umami of panfried cep mushrooms. Slightly sweet red kuri squash is the accompaniment of choice to showcase the elegance and finesse of Moulis-En-Médoc. A bold pairing offering a perfect balance of flavours.
Dish: Cheese platter from the Fromagerie de Pierre cheesemonger in Chartrons (aged goat’s cheese, Saint-Nectaire, tomme de Savoie)
Why this pairing?
What a sacrilege! You can already imagine your uncle fainting at this pairing between a white wine and cheese. However, this Pessac-Léognan goes perfectly with the cheeses selected. Elegant, complex and subtle, with aromas of citrus and white flowers, 2022 white Château Olivier beautifully enhances Saint-Nectaire and Tomme de Savoie.
Dish: Thin crust caramelised apple tart and custard
Why this pairing?
There’s no such thing as Christmas without Sauternes! This 2015 Château Guiraud is full of promise. The nose opens up with notes of fresh apricot and mirabelle plums. A well-balanced, ethereal and delicious wine. The caramelised apples and sweet custard go perfectly with the complex notes of this Great Growth.
Thanks to their expert advice, you should have a wonderful festive season with superb dishes and magnificent Bordeaux Grands Crus!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!
