Château Bel-Air la Royère's 2003 is a reflection of this super-concentrated, hedonistic Bordeaux vintage.

Bel-Air la Royère is a charming farmhouse perched on one of Blaye’s rolling hills with sweeping views over this Bordeaux’s right bank. Under Xavier and Corinne Loriaud, Bel-Air la Royère has risen to the top of Blaye's ladder, although they are certainly not shouting it from their petite farmhouse château.

They say that wines often reflect the personality of their growers and that is certainly true of this unpretentious boutique château. Unusually for Bordeaux, 25% of Bel-Air’s blend is Malbec, which adds unusual body, depth and spice to the wine.

Brambly black fruit bouquet with notes of cigar box and pencil shavings. Ripe red and black fruits pack the palate with cedary notes and savoury tannins. Great texture and a pleasing finish.

“Modern-styled, plump, fat, fleshy effort, the 2003 offers plenty of seductive black currant and cherry fruit presented in a seamless, plush opulent style that begs for consumption.” eRobertParker.com (Apr 2005)

“Lovely licorice, berry and chocolate character.Medium- to full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish.” Wine Spectator (June 2004)