2020 Chateau de Cerons Rouge, Graves

Château de Cérons Rouge from Graves is a refined and quietly expressive Bordeaux red that captures the elegance of the Left Bank with a touch of understated charm. Crafted by Xavier and Caroline Perromat, this wine blends the classic Bordeaux trio—Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a dash of Cabernet Franc—grown on the château’s deep gravel and limestone soils, right in the heart of the historic village of Cérons.

While the estate is better known for its sweet wines, the red wines are something of a hidden gem. The vines benefit from excellent drainage and a temperate microclimate influenced by the nearby Garonne River, resulting in fruit with freshness, balance, and depth.

Winemaking is thoughtful and restrained. The grapes are hand harvested, fermented in stainless steel to retain purity, and then matured in French oak barrels, with a modest portion of new oak used to add finesse without overshadowing the fruit.

In the glass, Château de Cérons Rouge opens with aromas of blackberry, plum, cedar, and graphite, with a touch of dried herbs and gravelly minerality. The palate is medium bodied and silky, showing ripe black fruit, fine tannins, and a clean, savoury finish. It’s a classic Graves profile—earthy, structured, and built for the table.

This is an excellent match with roast lamb, grilled vegetables, or aged cheeses, and it offers fantastic value for a Left Bank red with pedigree and finesse.