Château Lalande resides in Listrac-Médoc, one of the best appellations to find hidden, little gems. The eleven-hectare property has been owned and managed by the Dubosc family for over two centuries. Today, the estate is managed by Xavier Lescoutra, who has been at the helm since 2012. Eight hectares are planted to vine in clay-limestone rich soils, where Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot are sustainably farmed under HVE Level 3 certification.

The Château Lalande is a dazzling blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. Mid-ruby in color, captivating aromas of dark red berry and stone fruits dance from the glass, complemented with a light floral note and a touch of peppery spice. The wine is juicy and fresh on the attack, coating the palate with rich, concentrated flavors of blackcurrant, ripe cherries and stewed plums. This beautiful Bordeaux is rounded out by silky, smooth tannins and a discreet, saline minerality, all leading to a minutes-long finish that is accented with a hint of toasted oak. I can attest to the wine's pairing with steak, though anything of the grill will go wonderfully, especially burgers, lamp chops or venison kebabs.