main_variation_na_view_01_204x400Summer red drinkers, this pairing post is for you. I recently had the pleasure of trying the 2012 Les Cadrans de Lassègue from Château Lassègue ($35) made with a blend of 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and it was one brilliant Bordeaux! Wine from this region is certainly making it’s way back onto the dinner tables and into more cellars, as there are some great “Bordeaux’s for your buck” (where in the past, many questioned Bordeaux’s under $40.00)

This wine is a great introduction for those seeking something special from the right bank appellation of Saint-Émilion, where wines can easily cost three or four figures. The estate is located on the exclusive Côte de Saint-Émilion and produced by well-known Vigneron Pierre Seillan. At $35, this is a hard-to-beat Borfeaux option when searching for a top quality wine that offers top value.

IMG_6852While sitting outside this summer, entertaining family and friends over for a barbecue, pop open a bottle of this lovely red, which is aged 10 months in 20% new French oak and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hamburgers, footlong hotdogs (with all the fix-ins), and vegetable skewers. The Seillan family (winemaking family) however, often enjoys a bottle with their favorite summer fare: a plate of charcuterie… that’s so French, right? 

If you choose to go the charcuterie route however, be sure to try some of the smoked duck breast, duck leg confit, and the dry aged sausages from Les Trois Petits Cochons; one of my favorite charcuteries with fun, French wines! The merlot and cabernet sauvignon in this blend add a softness to this cabernet franc forward wine. This Bordeaux has wonderful structure, red berry on the nose, well integrated oak, and characteristics of limestone and clay. Les Cadrans de Lassègue has a beautiful finish and is a great pairing with your summer bbq favorites.

Always remember, eat what you like and drink what you love. Please pair responsibly!