Bordeaux is one of the oldest and most significant wine-producing regions in the world, producing a distinguished third of the highest quality French wines.
Located in southwest France, Bordeaux comprises 57 diverse appellations, growing five red varietals; Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Whites include Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Muscadelle. There are more than 9,000 individual producing châteaux and approximately 13,000 growers.
Having evolved for centuries, it is most certainly the “classified” region. The famous classification of 1855 was subsequently known as the “Classed Growths,” in which the châteaux or estates were positioned among five tiers (based on the relative quality of their wines) as expressed by the prices at that time.
The 2015 vintage offers affordable palate pleasing bottles, including a Cabernet Sauvignon/ Merlot blend from fourth generation vintner and enologist Marc LURTON’s Château Reynier (rehn-yae).
This delicious Bordeaux Supérieur was aged 12 months in French oak and is a beautiful, well-crafted, flavorful and food-friendly red blend. It is ready to drink and available now at Liquorama Upland ($11.99 – 750ml bottle), and also at Le Gourmet French Restaurant in Upland.
The name LURTON is highly respected throughout the wine world. Marc’s great-grandfather once owned half of the famous Château Margaux, Ch Brane-Cantenac and several other estates throughout Bordeaux. Nearly 30 châteaux are owned/operated by the LURTON family today.
The 15th Century Château Reynier Estate has belonged to the LURTON family over four generations. Founded by Marc’s great grandfather in 1901, Marc and his wife Agnes now operate Vignobles Marc and Agnes LURTON, a company whose includes labels Château Reynier and Château de Bouchet.
Some may recollect Marc’s assistance with premium Cucamonga Valley blends including the 2003 Deux Mondes Reserve. Enjoy a glass of wine tonight. For more, visit www.marc-agnes-lurton.com. Gino L. Filippi is a fourth-generation Cucamonga Valley vintner. Send wine comments and questions to Ginoffvine@aol.com.
