Listrac and Moulis are small appellations with dedicated growers that strived to produce the best wine possible, which was not an easy task in 2021. That being said, there a few, early drinking wines worth looking at for near-term consumption.
Climate change has continued to help growers in the cool. terroir in the Medoc. 2021 offered its challenges, but for the estates that were able to cope with the vintage, you can find some nice, classically-styled, Left Bank wines.
2021 Bordeaux is the product of a challenging vintage. Perhaps, it is was at its most difficult in the more generic, larger appellation of Bordeaux. In Bordeaux Superieur, at its best, you find pleasant, soft-textured, early drinking charmers that will be at their best on release, and for up to a decade in some cases.
2021 Bordeaux is a true, modern classic vintage. The wines are on the fresh, and savory side with more red fruits than black. Lower in alcohol than most recent years, with higher levels of freshness, and a minty edge, while you need to approach cautiously, there are wines worth tasting. As an added bonus, even the best wines will all be approachable on release, or with just a modicum of aging.
2021 Chateauneuf du Pape is going to provide all of its pleasures early. The wines already deliver soft-textured, kirsch, strawberry and red cherries with freshness, low levels of alcohol and savory herbs. This classic vintage is perfect for the next decade or so.
2021 Chateauneuf du Pape wines are going to make tasters seeking early drinkability, red fruits, lower alcohol levels and soft tannins quite happy.