AOC Sainte Foy-Bordeaux: This vast viticultural area is situated between St. Émilion and Bergerac, 80 km from Bordeaux. The fertile hills overlook the Dordogne River, one of the most beautiful areas in Southwestern France. This is a newer appellation with energetic vignerons seeking opportunities to distinguish themselves over their more complacent Bordelais counterparts.  You will be charmed when you try the truly exceptional 2007 Cuvée Fûts de Chêne Ste. Foy Bordeaux red. The balance of the ripe 2007 fruit with the subtle vanilla and spice oak nuances is an absolutely delicious combination.

Cépages: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon.

About the Producer: Chateau Carbonneau is a family-run estate comprised of 50 hectares in the heart of Bordeaux vineyards close to Sainte Foy La Grande. Eleven hectares produce red wines of AOC Bordeaux and Sainte Foy Bordeaux. The vineyard is planted on clay-limestone soil. A traditional vinification with three weeks fermentation and maceration is followed by one year in french and american oak barrels.

Chateau Carbonneau's proprietors, Wilfrid and Jacquie Franc de Ferrière, have a wonderful bed and breakfast set in a unique and restful surrounding. Their chateau, built in the middle of the nineteenth century, is surrounded by two hectares of beautiful gardens. This bed and breakfast is one of the best values in France. For more information, connect to their web site, www.chateau-carbonneau.com.

Tasting Notes: The 2007 Château Carbonneau Cuvée Fûts de Chêne will delight you with its lovely fruit, supple texture and affordable price. It captures the olfactory sense with its array of fruit, herb, cedar, cocoa and spice aromas. Plush and elegant on the palate, its blackcurrant and black cherry fruits are underscored by elements of earth, vanilla, dried herbs and cedar. The subtle spice lingers pleasantly at the finish. The style is similar to a fine bottling from nearby St. Emilion. Sainte-Foy Bordeaux produces wines that are characterized by the same depth and complexity you expect from Bordeaux wines. An impressive Bordeaux red!

 Recommended Food Pairings: Fully enjoyable now, it will cellar well for another 4 years and more.Try this excellent Bordeaux with most any red meat dish, grilled foods, mild cheeses or fish poached in red wine,  including salmon, as well as pork.

Awards:  The Bordelais trade awarded this wine with a gold medal in the Concours de Bordeaux judging of 3500 Bordeaux - an affirmation of Château Carbonneau's fantastic value! Guide Hachette,

See also from this producer: 2008 Classique