Bordeaux: Surprise bargains

Everyday Bordeaux is finally affordable, said John Mariani in Bloomberg.com. International competition and a steep decline in French consumption have recently inspired the region’s producers to ship more wines that are priced to move. Below are three enchanting examples—”distinctive” blends that truly “show their terroir.”

2010 Château de Lavagnac ($10). “An amazement at this price,” this lush, “velvety smooth” merlot blend is perfect with pâté.

2010 Château Haut-Mondain Grande Réserve ($15). “If you’ve never tasted Bordeaux and wish to know its character,” this award-winning example “will provide you with all you need to know.”

2011 Château Lamothe-Vincent Intense ($11). “Bold fruit and supple tannins” make the 2011 vintage impressive even now. And it’ll keep improving with age.