Château Tasta T de Tasta Canon-Fronsac 2019

Château Tasta, built in the 13th century, overlooks a small valley by the river Dordogne (Bordeaux’s northern river, for non-initiates). Don’t let the word “château” throw you – this is not the domain of the suede driving shoe but rather the weathered work boot. Château Tasta’s 18 hectares are a family operation, worked by the Chevaliers since 1922. Today Patrice, 4th in his line, runs the place along with wife Frédérique. Their son Maxence, né sous un pied de vigne (born at the foot of the vine), stepped up to join his parents in 2021 (and younger son Antoine is well on his way too).

Alors ça, c’est un Bordeaux! From 30 year old vines in a green clay terroir, this 2019 pours into the glass like a deep garnet curtain. The nose evokes a gentleman’s study with notes of cigar box, caramel, a puff of tobacco, enhanced with a touch of ripe red berry. Those same notes become three dimensional once on the palate, with a strong attack before showing a more subtle side that lingers for a finish that leaves us wanting “just a touch more…”