Clos Marsalette Pessac-Léognan Bordeaux, France 750ML

Clos Marsalette is a distinguished red Bordeaux wine from the prestigious Pessac-Léognan appellation in Graves, France. Created in 2002 by Francis Boutemy and now co-owned by Stephan von Neipperg — renowned for his St. Émilion estates including Chateau Canon La Gaffeliere and La Mondotte — Clos Marsalette has quickly established itself as one of the finest value wines in Pessac-Léognan.

The red wine is a blend of approximately 55–58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40–43% Merlot, and 1–2% Cabernet Franc, sourced from a 12.3-hectare vineyard in Martillac with soils of sand, clay, gravel, and small stones. Vines average 16 years of age, farmed using organic and sustainable viticulture without insecticides or herbicides. Grapes are whole-berry fermented in oak vats and cement tanks with a 26-day cuvaison; malolactic fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, and the wine is aged in 50% new French oak for 18 months before bottling. Annual production is approximately 4,500 cases.

Clos Marsalette shows aromas of dark cherry, tobacco, cedar, smoke, and currants, with a round, medium-bodied palate delivering silky tannins and fresh fruit. It benefits from 4–6 years of bottle age and reaches peak maturity between 6–15 years of age. Decanting for 1–2 hours is recommended for younger vintages. Best served at 15.5°C (60°F), it pairs well with lamb, beef, duck, roasted meats, mushrooms, and aged cheeses.