2016 Chateau de Monteberiot 'Villa Jeanne', Cotes de Bourg, France

The 2016 Château de Monteberiot “Villa Jeanne,” Côtes de Bourg is a classic Right Bank–influenced Bordeaux led by Merlot, crafted by Marie-Hélène and Gilles Marsaudon from their best estate parcels overlooking the Dordogne and Garonne rivers. The vineyards are organically farmed, with a focus on low yields and expressive fruit, and the blend typically combines Merlot with Malbec and Cabernet Franc to balance richness, structure, and freshness.

Fermentation takes place in concrete to preserve purity, with part of the wine aged in neutral French oak and the remainder in concrete, adding texture without overpowering the fruit.

On the nose, it shows ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum, layered with mocha, bay leaf, thyme, and subtle spice.

The palate is medium-to-full-bodied, smooth and polished, with well-integrated tannins, rounded dark fruit, savory herbal notes, and a creamy, softly spiced finish. It pairs beautifully with grilled steak, roast lamb, duck breast, beef stews, cassoulet, or aged semi-hard cheeses, making it an approachable yet characterful expression of Côtes de Bourg.