CHâTEAU DE CANDALE 2001, CHâTEAU D'ISSAN

This absolutely classic Claret is a serious contender for the best-value wine in the shop. Made by Château d'Issan of Margaux, whose Grand Vin sells for more than double the price, this wine comes from a parcel of vines lying just beyond the Margaux boundary (which excludes them from being used to make the Grand Vin). The wine is medium-bodied, balanced, and absolutely full of typical Bordeaux character.

Drinking superbly now but will go on to improve.

The vineyard at d'Issan has been expanded considerably since the acquisition by the Cruse family, gradually increasing from just a couple of hectares after the war to the current size of 30 hectares. The main vineyard lies adjacent to the chateau, has a typically gravelly terroir and is planted with 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. The vines are planted at a density of 8500 per hectare, and have an average age of 35 years. The pick of the crop goes into the Grand Vin, the good-value second wine, Blason d'Issan gets a selection of barrels not judged strong enough to go into the top wine and some juice from the younger vines. Chateau D'Issan also produce two wines made from adjoining vineyards, Chateau de Candale and Moulin d'Issan. Quality here is on the rise, and the wine has moved to a more modern style, in keeping with the general style of the Margaux commune.