Chateau Olivier 2017, Pessac-Leognan (1x75cl)

A red from Pessac-Leognan, the Graves area just outside the city of Bordeaux. Reds from here usually have a slightly earthy, smoky edge next to the fruit, which makes them easy with food rather than something you have to plan a meal around.

Good for a normal dinner at home — grilled pork, duck breast, mushrooms, even a cheese plate. Also a sensible gift bottle when you want Bordeaux without going straight to the obvious names.

Tasting notes

Pessac-Leognan reds typically show dark cherry and plum with tobacco, warm earth and a hint of woodsmoke, and medium tannins. Half an hour of air is usually enough.