BORDEAUX, FRANCE
about the wine
Biodynamic farming in Côtes de Bourg might sound ambitious, but the Hubert family has built something quietly extraordinary here. They've been practicing biodynamic viticulture on the largest certified property in the region since 1997, watching the terroir respond. The wines are natural, honest reflections of the right bank's clay and limestone—nothing more, nothing less.
tasting notes
The 2022 vintage is Merlot-led, with supporting roles from Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It’s the kind of Bordeaux that feels alive in the glass: juicy dark plum, blackberry, and dried herbs, with subtle earth and graphite undertones. There’s structure, but it’s never heavy—just enough grip to remind you this is serious red wine, without overwhelming its vibrancy.
pair with
Pair with classic cassoulet, roast duck, lentil stew, or a hunk of Comté and crusty bread.
Also a great bistro wine for burgers or backyard gilled steaks or smoked brisket.
about the winery
Château la Grolet isn’t your typical Bordeaux château. Located in Côtes de Bourg—an unsung Right Bank appellation across the river from Margaux—it’s part of the Hubert family’s biodynamic estate portfolio (along with Château Peybonhomme). The vines are deeply rooted in clay-limestone soils, and the winemaking is hands-off but precise, with native yeasts, minimal sulfur, and aging in concrete and used barrels.
about the region
The Côtes de Bourg is a historic Right Bank Bordeaux wine region located 35km north of Bordeaux city, overlooking the Gironde Estuary. It covers roughly 3,400 to 3,700 hectares across 15 communes, specializing in Merlot-driven red wines, which make up over 98% of production. Known for steep hills, clay-limestone soils, and high-quality, value-driven, and fruit-forward wines.
(Grolet is a bit earthier than most, which is why I’ve always loved it! - Neil)