Clos Cantenac Petit Cantenac Saint‑Émilion Grand Cru 2020 from Clos Cantenac in Saint‑Émilion is a richly coloured, savoury Bordeaux that delivers serious bang for your buck for lovers of right‑bank reds. This Petit Cantenac 2020 shows deep purple‑crimson hues with lifted aromas of black plums, cassis, damsons and autumnal blackberries, layered with violets, sweet spice and a touch of charry oak and mocha. The palate is medium‑bodied yet concentrated, very Merlot‑driven, with velvety but firm, chewy tannins, dark‑chocolate notes and a fresh lift from fig and licorice on the finish.

Serving this Clos Cantenac Petit Cantenac Grand Cru alongside food is where it really shines – think grilled ribeye, lamb cutlets with rosemary, or a slow‑braised beef ragù on pappardelle, all perfect for that savoury, classic Saint‑Émilion profile. It will also sit beautifully with mushroom risotto, duck breast or a hard cheese platter featuring Comté or aged cheddar, thanks to its rich fruit and smooth but thick texture. Give it an hour in a carafe to let those damson, plum and chocolate notes expand and you’ll have a cracking dinner party Bordeaux that drinks well now but can happily sit in the cellar for a decade.

With its Bordeaux blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 Petit Cantenac Saint‑Émilion Grand Cru offers a modern yet traditional take on right‑bank structure – plush, broad and smooth, just slightly savoury to keep it food‑friendly. Classic red and black fruit, sweet spice, violets and leather‑like nuances make this an enticing option for collectors and casual drinkers alike who want a Saint‑Émilion Grand Cru that is approachable yet serious. If you’re chasing a characterful, spiced and rich Bordeaux to impress over dinner in Adelaide or anywhere else, this is a smart bottle to snap up.