Château Ducluzeau is a sleeper, in part, because the production is small, about 5,000 bottles annually. The 2015 is an extraordinary value, well worth the search. Owned by Bruno Borie’s mother (he’s the managing director of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou), it is uncommonly suave for a wine from Listrac. It’s a Merlot-heavy (85%) blend, which likely explains at least part of its fleshy smoothness. It’s fruit-forward without being fruity. And indeed, as it sits in the glass, gorgeous savory nuances emerge. Its polished tannins allow you to drink it now, though I suspect given the family’s reputation for fabulous wine, it will evolve beautifully over the next decade. Do not miss this bargain.
Château Ducluzeau, Listrac – Médoc (Bordeaux, France) 2015
By Michael Apstein