# Le Sablou Bergerac (2022)

- **Producer:** Grands Chais de Saint Laurent
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec
- **Region:** South West France, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €9
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, black plum, blackberry, black cherry, red cherry, vanilla, cloves

## About this wine

Le Sablou Bergerac is a red wine from the Bergerac AOC in Southwest France, produced by Grands Chais de Saint Laurent. The wine is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec, sourced from vineyards with clay and limestone soils. Grands Chais de Saint Laurent is a prominent producer in the Bergerac region, known for its commitment to quality and tradition. This wine is recognized for delivering notable quality at an accessible price point, with its stainless steel aging emphasizing the purity of its grape varietals.

## Interesting facts

- Dubbed a 'Bordeaux light' for its approachable style.
- A blend of four classic Bordeaux grapes.
- A significant player in the Bergerac region.
- Known for offering high quality at an affordable price.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and clear tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like beef and lamb, while its fresh acidity can cut through fatty elements. The dark berry notes in the wine can echo savory flavors in dishes, and spicy nuances can be enhanced by well-seasoned food.

## Wine making process

The production of Le Sablou Bergerac involves the separate vinification of its constituent grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, a process that allows for careful management of temperature and the preservation of fresh fruit aromas. Following fermentation, the wine continues its maturation period in stainless steel tanks. This method of aging is chosen to emphasize the purity of the grape varietals and the wine's fruit-forward character, rather than introducing oak influences. The grapes are sourced from vineyards with clay and limestone soils and are hand-harvested.