Château Coufran, Haut-Médoc (Bordeaux, France) 2018

 2018 was a ripe vintage for Bordeaux with many wines just arriving in the US market.  This is a fine harvest throughout Bordeaux.  While prices for the most famous Bordeaux estates remain high, those seeking better value in claret can look to the Haut-Médoc appellation.  The commune of Saint-Seurin-de-Cadourne adjoins St. Éstephe to the north and is included in the Haut-Médoc.  Château Coufran is a noted estate in the commune and Coufran’s 2018 red is a splendid example of the estate’s potential.  Coufran’s vineyards average 50 years of age and are planted on a subtle rise overlooking the Gironde estuary.  There is more clay in the soil here and Merlot is widely planted to take advantage of that characteristic.  The 2018 Château Coufran is rich with blackberry, blackcurrant and red cherry fruits underscored by hints of violet, cocoa, herbs, vanilla and baking spices.  It is an exemplary claret that expresses the richness and depth of the vintage with its beautiful purity of fruit and complex layering of flavors.  This is a wine you can enjoy now or cellar for another 10+ years.