At a glance

Producer

Hebrard & de Bouard

Region

Côtes de Francs, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Primarily Merlot, with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$28

Tasting profile

Ripe blackberry, plum, black cherry, vanilla, subtle cocoa, light earth and spice. Medium body, smooth tannins, fresh finish.

Evolution: Primary fruit giving way to subtle tertiary notes: dried cherry, cedar, faint tobacco.

At peak: At peak now through 2025, with harmonious integration of fruit and savory complexity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium, approachable and integrated

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

Solid for the price; designed for earlier enjoyment but can show well up to ~10-12 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2021 to 2025

Optimal window

2019 to 2027

Current status

Approaching mature phase, drinking very well now

Current condition

In its prime: developed but retaining fresh fruit and fine structure

As a well-made Right Bank Bordeaux at this price point, the wine's best expression is in its first 8-10 years. 2016 is a strong vintage, so this wine ages a bit longer than most Côtes de Francs, but as a $20-28 bottle, it's not structured for multi-decade aging; best to enjoy within 12 years after harvest.

Food pairing

Roast duck, grilled lamb chops, pork tenderloin, lentil stew, wild mushroom risotto, aged Comté or Tomme de Savoie.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Allows the fruit to unfurl and integrates any lingering oak or reduction.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

Hebrard & de Bouard are committed to responsible viticulture typical of modern Bordeaux: minimal herbicide usage, vineyard grassing, responsible water management, but not at the level of formal certification. There is evidence of ongoing improvements in energy and vineyard management.

No formal environmental certifications, but estate operates under typical responsible Bordeaux practices. Some manual vineyard work and soil health initiatives mentioned by estate, yet no major sustainability milestones. Packaging is standard, not light glass or alternative materials. Sustainability awareness is present but not industry-leading for Bordeaux. Improvements possible in transparency, renewable energy use, and formal certifications.