Small, inexpensive Bordeaux producers shine during great vintages. I have said it before and it bears repeating: “the best way to look for value in Bordeaux is to search out small producers, or the second labels of well-known chateaux, in superior vintages.”

I can’t tell you a lot about Château Pied d’Argent, information was scant at best. They are a small producer with vines in the AOC region of the Côtes de Bordeaux. The vineyards of the Côtes are primarily along the three rivers of the region (well, two rivers and one estuary), which means that they are planted primarily to Merlot. As such, the wines tend to be plumier and livelier than their cousins elsewhere in the region. The Château did win a coveted bronze medal in the famous Concours de Bordeaux and was greeted with great press across Europe.

Priced modestly at $14.99 per bottle before any discounts, the wine represents a very good value. Recently, the wine was a put on special offer at a metro-Boston wine shop, with a net price of $9.99 per bottle – no further discounts. At that price, the wine is an amazing value and deserves anyone’s attention.

My tasting note:

Ripe, lively nose with bright cherry, blackberry and lilac hints. Medium-bodied with moderate acidity and moderate tannin – good balance. Dark fruit core with black cherry, tobacco and light cedar notes. Moderate length, simple and smooth, somewhat closed. Drinking well now and the wine should improve with some bottle age. Great value!

Cheers!