Château Haut Claribes, Bordeaux Supérieur (France) 2019

 This is the top-of-the-line release from Domaines Fontana, which is located in Gensac, a tiny town midway between St.-Émilion and Bergerac.  With Merlot dominating the blend, it is a medium- to full-bodied, compact wine that begins with aromas of ripe plum and licorice leading to background notes of dried herbs, tobacco and spice.  Surprisingly concentrated for the price, it opens up in the glass to remind you of its Bordeaux personality.  It finishes on a mild tannic note, so can be cellared for a few years.  On a personal note, Gensac was the neighboring village during my decade of living in France, so I was delighted to become reacquainted with this wine that is now imported by Trader Joe’s.