Château Cru Godard Francs-Côtes-de-Bordeaux

Vintage: 2022

Origin: Bordeaux, France

Grapes: 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec

Alcohol: 14.5%

Franck and Carine Richard have been farming 45-year-old vines organically on high-altitude clay-limestone slopes since taking over the estate in 1998. Franck trusts his instincts rather than hiring an oenologist, managing low yields on south-facing hillsides where low rainfall helps the grapes ripen evenly. That extra elevation adds a crisp, energetic lift that makes this serious value for Bordeaux.

The Merlot-forward blend opens with redcurrants, blackberries, and soft floral notes. Half of the wine ages in stainless steel tanks and half in older barrels, keeping the oak back while a low-sulphur approach lets a refreshing saline character from the limestone shine through. Grab a bottle to open alongside duck confit, slow-cooked beef, or a good cheese board.