By Christopher Matthews

It’s no secret that Bordeaux represents a great source of wine value, despite the outsized focus on the Grand Cru chateaux and hallowed First Growths (which certainly have their place, too). Value, of course, is a very relative thing, but sometimes the Bordeaux bargains can border the ridiculous.  Such is the case with the 2014 Chateau Carbonneau Classique, a complete knockout for…$11.00!

Produced in the small sub-district of Sainte Foy Bordeaux, on the eastern edge of the greater Bordeaux region, just south of the Dordogne river and bordering Bergerac and the Cotes de Duras, the 2014 Classique is a 50-50 Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon blend, grown on clay and limestone soils.  It was aged five months in stainless steel vats before bottling in Spring 2015.

And it’s stunningly good for the price. Deep, clear ruby with aromas of red fruits and slight pepper spice, the Classique has amazing verve and energy on the palate, featuring pretty cherry and cranberry fruit with a touch of pepper and nutmeg, soft tannins and a clean, long finish. Completely quaffable, yet with enough structure to hold up easily — and deliciously —  to roasted lamb chops or other hearty meats.

Not surprisingly, I found this at my go-to Manhattan wine shop, Crush Wine & Spirits.

A case-buy no-brainer…santé!