CHATEAU LA PIERRIERE 2005

I am always on the hunt for good value – you could say that’s my job – and everyone should know by now how I’ve been feeling about Bordeaux these days. So it’s a double treat to find a good Bordeaux at an inexpensive price. Case in point, I just got in the Chateau La Pierrière Côtes de Castillon 2005 ($14.49). Here’s a wonderful, ready-to-drink red from this phenomenal vintage. The color is cherry red, looking like my wife’s favorite gemstone, garnet. There is expressive Bing and black cherry notes in the nose, with a hint of cedar, earth, red flower and Macanudo® cigar. It’s a touch closed, but it still gives up nice aromas, a bit of a tease you could say. In the mouth, you get more cherry fruit, with hints of red and black currant, cloves, Darjeeling tea, bitter chocolate and pencil shavings. The tannins are soft, and there’s a just a slight kiss of acidity to keep things lively. It’s a fine, medium-bodied Merlot-dominated red that will show well with mild barbeque or grilled Filet Mignon.