Chateau du Gazin, 2006, Canon-Fronsac, Bordeaux

After Jane MacQuitty recommended this particular claret in The Times wine guide this year I thought id try it next time I got the chance, at the moment its on special offer at Waitrose stores....Hence the review! Canon-Fronsac is a satellite appellation of the more renowned Fronsac appellation however both have been rightly growing in reputation over the years, especially the former concerned here. This particular wine from Chateaux du Gazin is a typical right bank bordeaux mix of predominantly Merlot however Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc with a dash of Malbec also complement the mix - some of which herald from 40 year old, low yield vines. Initially a strong, heady plumy aroma greets the nose, figgy and oaky components complement this but the fruitiness aspect is veiled in typical brooding claret darkness. Upon first swig its a strong, tannic ordeal but with an increasingly smooth and fruity - albeit dry and antiqued in finish. Cedar, oak, sour cherries, hints of strawberries, oregano, thyme and maybe sage all mix effervescent to pretty heady affects. This is a wine that feels much finer than its price tag. Its a good, strong, dark red for the price and would go well with classic Merlot accompaniments but also dishes that yearn for a slightly sweeter wine than a straight forward full blooded Bordeaux... Sweet aromas, oaky but smooth taste and haunting finish, not particularly complex but refined and sleek. The 2006 vintage is good, and this wine is so smooth and haunting, so refined in its delivery of the various components it would be interesting to lay it down for a few years and see how it would perform in 2016. On offer its a great buy, I would be tempted to stock up on a few just to lay down, its such a good claret, nothing amazing, but nothing is awkward or ill fitting and on the nose certain aspects shine like bottles three times the price.