Bois Royal Bordeaux 2020 – Beat The Clock Deal

This Bois Royal represents the Right Bank's more approachable character, being fruit-forward and plush rather than the structured, tannic profile typical of Left Bank Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines. The Merlot blend creates a softer, more immediately enjoyable drinking experience while still maintaining Bordeaux's signature complexity. The wine balances accessibility with sophistication, making it perfect for those who find traditional Bordeaux too austere.

Serve this full-bodied Bordeaux at 16-18°C to allow the rich blackberry fruit and cedar notes to shine through properly. Decant for 30-60 minutes before serving to help integrate the tannins and release the cigar box aromatics mentioned in its profile. The wine's plush texture and spice finish make it ideal for pairing with grilled red meats, aged cheeses, or hearty stews that complement its savoury complexity.

The 94-point James Suckling score places this wine in the 'outstanding' category, indicating exceptional quality that rivals much more expensive Bordeaux. The Gold medal from Berliner Wein Trophy 2021 confirms its international recognition among wine professionals. These accolades suggest the 2020 vintage successfully captured the region's potential, delivering both immediate appeal and the structure needed for further development.

While this 2020 Bordeaux is described as 'easy going' and fruit-forward, suggesting it's approachable now, quality Right Bank Bordeaux typically benefits from 5-10 years of cellaring. The wine's full-bodied structure and savoury finish indicate it has the backbone for aging, where the cedar and spice elements will become more integrated. You can enjoy it immediately for its plush fruit character or cellar it to develop more complex tertiary flavours.

The wine's rich blackberry fruit and cedar notes make it excellent with roasted lamb, beef wellington, or duck confit where the meat's richness matches the wine's full body. The cigar box and spice finish also pairs beautifully with aged hard cheeses like Comté or mature Cheddar. For vegetarian options, try it with mushroom risotto or grilled portobello steaks, as the earthy flavours complement the wine's savoury complexity.