Tasting Notes
The story
Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, formerly known as Côtes de Castillon,
is one of the satellite appellations of Bordeaux, situated to the east of St Emilion. Château Moya is the sister château to Château du Gaby, now known as Château Gaby, whose
2004 Canon-Fronsac AOC is also available from Wines With Attitude®. The wine-maker is the same Damien Landouar and the wine Merlot-dominant though 93% compared to 85% for the Gaby.
Following organic principles since 2009, Château Moya has been formally certified as organic ("agriculture biologique") since 2013.
The wine
Ruby red in colour.
The nose and palate are both dominated by red fruits - redcurrants, raspberries, ripe plums - as would be expected of a young Merlot dominated wine. This wine has been aged in oak - split 50% in new barrels and 50% in 1 to 2 year old barrels - there are only
hints of oak ageing on the palate. This tastes of a
young, fruit-forward wine; both Moya and Gaby pick their grapes as late as possible to ensure full maturity. Given its youth, it is not quite as soft as the Gaby wines but the tannins will integrate further over the next few years. It is nevertheless an elegant medium-bodied wine.
Drinks well now. If you prefer an older Right Bank Bordeaux, try the
2004 Château du Gaby.
Food Pairing
Recommended with red meat dishes - beef, duck, lamb; also chicken, turkey, cheese, tomato-based dishes, mushrooms, roast vegetables.
Awards
87 points Wine Spectator 2014
"Shows a strong savory edge, offering a mix of singed cedar, tobacco and mulled plum fruit that knits well through the finish.”
89 points Robert Voss Jan 2014
”With attractive mint aromas, this polished wine balances structure and fruit. New wood shows through but it doesn’t dominate the black fruits that give weight and ripeness. It shows the typical juiciness of the vintage."
