WTN: Sociando-Mallet 2007

As some of you might have noticed, I have grown quite disillusioned with Bordeaux in recent years. I don't buy them anymore (except for a couple producers if I see them...), but today I got to try Sociando-Mallet 2007. I haven't been paying much attention to Bordeaux talk, but IIRC this vintage wasn't received very favourably.

Maybe I will resurrect my interest in this area by drinking the produce of these lesser years. The oak is more forward than I would prefer, but it doesn't overpower the other aromas, so perhaps that is forgiveable in such a young wine. Good body and a wonderfully classical 12,5% abv, refreshing, crisp palate and finish. Moreish. The oak isn't noticeable on the palate. Good stuff and more classically styled than most other Bordeaux I have recently had.

But, and there just has to be a "but" with Bordeaux, the price! Oh my goodness, the price! Just under 50€ / bottle in Finland. And that is the outrageous thing about this wine.

[David M. Bueker]

Bordeaux pricing is out of hand, and your monopoly situation only makes it worse.

I maintain that if 2007 finished quality had happened in the '70s it would have been considered a vintage of the century. The fact is that overall vintage consistency, and the level of winemaking skill has rendered good years as mediocre. The syle of the wines may not always be to everyones' taste, but the wines are very well made.

As for the oak - time.