Just when you thought it wasn’t safe to swim in the ‘good Bordeaux under 15 bucks’ sea, along comes a very nice surprise, which not only tastes really good, and tastes like Bordeaux, but comes in at a whopping $11.99 a bottle!

The wine is Ch. Lafont-Fourcat. It is AOC Bordeaux, which explains the entry level price, and it is vintage 2010, which probably explains why I enjoyed the wine as much as I did. 2010 is a very respectable vintage, top to bottom, and there is more than a little buzz in the market that many Bordeaux buyers prefer the 2010s over the 2009s. Both fine, with differences, of course.

The 2010 Ch. Lafont-Fourcat offers immediately pleasing aromas of plum, dark fruits and that ‘Bordeaux thing’ of earthiness and subtlety. Yes, it actually has a bit of complexity at a price where it can be difficult finding balance, never mind place. In the mouth, it is soft and fruit driven, with silky berry and plum flavors and a warm feel. It finishes seamlessly, if maybe a little quick, but hey...it is twelve bucks. A real surprise, I think, especially when you consider there are many folks who simply write off Bordeaux as being too pricey and, at the same time, those who are disappointed at the entry level.

We have a good supply right now, but that won’t last. As soon as word gets out, the wine will be snapped off the shelves in a hurry. I have requested a few of the Central Florida stores with Cruvinet systems to add this one soon. Stop in and taste before you buy! One final note...you might not find this gem looking in the Bordeaux section since it is so inexpensive. Try looking in the French value area, where it definitely fits!

Shayne Hebert, Central Florida Wine Supervisor. Follow me on Twitter @abcwineshayne.