Wines Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux Château La Grave - Nectar - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Château La Grave Cuvée Nectar 2022, from the Castillon-Côtes-de-Bordeaux AOC, is an expressive red wine rooted in classic Bordeaux tradition. The blend, while proprietary, undoubtedly features a predominance of Merlot supported by Cabernet Franc and perhaps a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, reflecting the local preference for soft, fruit-forward profiles nuanced with structure and freshness. The 2022 vintage was marked by favourable growing conditions—a mild spring followed by a warm, sunny summer—yielding ripe, concentrated grapes. Vinification here typically involves careful extraction to balance plush fruit with elegant tannins, followed by ageing in a mix of stainless steel and possibly oak, to preserve both freshness and complexity.

Situated just east of Saint-Émilion, the Castillon-Côtes-de-Bordeaux appellation benefits from limestone-rich soils and gentle slopes that enhance drainage and mineral expression. This region enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, which moderates both heat and drought, giving a long, slow ripening period. Red wines from Castillon have gained increasing attention for their quality and individuality, often rivalling their more famous neighbours while representing sterling value. The area's history is steeped in Bordeaux tradition, marrying an artisanal sensibility to modern winemaking precision.

For food pairing, the supple tannins and generous fruit of Château La Grave Cuvée Nectar make it an excellent companion to classic bistro fare such as roast duck breast or entrecôte bordelaise. Regional dishes, like confit de canard or lamb with herbs, will highlight the wine's subtle earthy undertones. For vegetarians, a wild mushroom risotto or aubergine gratin would pair beautifully with the wine's depth and freshness, offering a harmonious interplay of flavours.

For serving, decant the bottle for about 30 minutes to allow the aromas to fully develop. The optimal tasting temperature is between 16 and 18°C. This range will bring out the nuances of red berry fruit, subtle spice, and the silky texture typical of fine Castillon reds. Enjoy it over the next 5 to 8 years for the best balance between youthful fruit and emerging complexity.