Château de Taillan, Haut-Médoc (Bordeaux, France) 2011

This property, classified as a Cru Bourgeois, a category that accounts for less than 5 percent of all the properties in Bordeaux, reinforces the idea that Bordeaux is, indeed, the place for value-packed red wines.  Less weighty and fruit-focused than California Merlot, this blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc has a beguiling combination of fruitiness and earthiness supported by firm, but not aggressive, structure and uplifting acidity.  It’s easy to recommend for drinking this fall with beef. Another bargain whose quality vastly exceeds its price.