Julie and Xavier Gonet-Médeville are, in many ways, the first couple of French wines. Both hail from storied winemaking families: Julie’s family is famous for its incomparable Chateau Gilette, and Xavier comes from a long line of Champagne growers in Le Mesnil.

Leading a new generation of winemakers, they bring their family knowledge, methods and passion to the many wines they now make together. In 2009, Julie and Xavier purchased Monplaisir, which consists of two parcels: one planted on silt below Château d’Issan, the other planted on gravel and clay below Château Margaux. Made of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, this pleasing cuvée is aged primarily in tank, with only 10% aging in cask. Monplaisir is a Bordeaux Supérieur adjacent to the appellation of Margaux. It is this proximity the prestigious appellation that makes this wine a great value for the money — a rare find in Bordeaux.

Crafted with polished style, offers classic Bordeaux aromatics of plums, figs, graphite, black currant and a touch of oak. Cabernet adds structure and firmness to otherwise silky tannins, finishes moderately long and leafy fresh. Pair with a rosemary and thyme braised lamb shoulder or short rib burgers topped in Gruyere.

ALC 14%