During my last visit to the Bordeaux wine region a few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to come across an exceptional producer – a woman named Chantal Benito, who is extremely passionate about her craft and produces wine of a great quality.
Located in the Bordelais, the three estates that make up the Benito Vineyard (Château Saint-Nicolas, Château Tour du Videau and Château Graveyres) span 32 hectares near Cadillac, on the Garonne’s right bank. Chantal Benito, who is in charge of the domain since 2005, has turned to eco-friendly wine-making, banning sulphur from her production. This has given birth to wines with a heavily pronounced and clean fruitiness.
Three different styles of reds are derived from the 2015 vintage – one of the most sought after over the past twenty years. They are characterised by supple tannins and a pronounced fruit, mixing intensity and balance.
The Château Graveyres 2015, Bordeaux Supérieur, displays a fresh nose and develops cherry aromas and toffee notes. Its mouth presents a clear attack balanced between a thin tannic structure and fresh red fruit aromas. The finish is delicately woody and mentholated.
Looking to the Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, the Château Tour du Videau 2015 takes us along a journey marked by blackcurrant and blackberry aromas, completed by milky and smoky touches. Its mouth is fresh and thin, with a pleasant and lightly tannic finish.
Meanwhile, the Château Saint-Nicolas 2015, AOC Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, presents a strong nose with blackcurrant aromas supplemented by roasty and vanilla touches. Its attack is clear and well structured, with melted tannins. This wine has a nice length, with a finish marked by grilled and smoky notes.
As for the whites, the Château Graveyres Jade 2017 cuvée offers a Sauvignon and Muscadelle blend, giving birth to a dry white wine with floral touches. It will make a perfect match for aperitifs, as well as for seafood and fish.