Clarandelle Bordeaux Rouge / 2018 / 750mL

Clarandelle is a red Bordeaux blend built for everyday drinking rather than long cellaring, leaning on the region's classic mix of dark fruit and gentle savouriness. Medium-bodied and approachable, it makes the Bordeaux style easy to enjoy without waiting years for it to soften.

The nose leads with blackcurrant and dark plum, with a graphite edge and a little dried herb and cedar sitting behind the fruit. Air brings out something earthier, closer to tobacco leaf and damp forest floor.

On the palate the fruit is ripe but restrained, framed by fine-grained tannins that grip lightly rather than dry the mouth out. Acidity keeps the middle fresh and the finish runs medium-length, turning savoury with a touch of bitter chocolate and dried bay.

Pour it with roast lamb, a beef and mushroom pie, grilled sausages or a plate of hard cheeses. It also handles simpler weeknight food well — spaghetti bolognese, a steak sandwich, or lentils braised with bacon.

Drinking nicely now and over the next three to four years. Give it twenty minutes in the glass or a quick decant if you are opening it young, and serve slightly below room temperature.