2012 Chateau de Landiras Graves

Happy Tuesday!  This has been a busy week so far and it doesn't look like it's going to get any better, so that means it's time to open a bottle of wine!  Tonight I've decided to open a bottle of 2012 Chateau de Landiras Graves, a blend of Merlot (75%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (25%) from the left bank of the Garonne.  I bought this wine recently in the "Cheapskate Tuesday" event at Wines 'Till Sold Out, so let's see how it is!

The wine is a beautiful deep ruby color in the glass.  The nose presents aromas of cherry, blackberry, coffee and spice.  The taste is very nice, with subtle fruit notes up front, blackberry and cherry that transition effortlessly to some lovely earthy notes of mocha and dusty limestone midpalate.  The tannins are softer and well integrated, providing for a long, smooth and exceptionally dry finish that is classic Bordeaux.

Overall, I would rate this wine a solid 8, as it's a nice example of the appellation and a terrific value at just $17.  This wine would pair well with a variety of hearty dishes, from steaks and chops to hearty stews, though tonight I am pairing it with leftovers!  Sante!