Fugue De Nenin 2019

Fugue De Nenin 2019 is filed as a French red, and the name follows the naming of Pomerol-area Bordeaux, where Merlot usually leads the blend. The details supplied don't confirm the grape mix, alcohol level or oak treatment, so what follows describes what this style usually delivers. The back label has the specifics. Merlot-led Bordeaux-style reds of this kind typically show plum, black cherry and blackberry fruit, often with notes of cocoa, tobacco leaf or cedar once the wine has had some time in bottle. Expect a medium-full body, moderate and fairly supple tannins, and enough acidity to keep the fruit from turning heavy. Oak, if used, tends to appear as a light toast or spice rather than a dominant flavor. The finish is usually medium in length and dry. A 2019 wine of this type is likely in a good drinking window now, though structured examples can hold and soften for several more years. At the table, this style suits roast chicken with mushrooms, braised short ribs, lamb with rosemary, duck breast, and mushroom risotto. Hard aged cheeses such as Comté or aged Gouda also work. Spicy or very sweet dishes will fight with the tannin and fruit, so steer away from them. Serve it at roughly 60 to 65°F, which is cool cellar temperature and a bit below a warm room. Thirty to sixty minutes in a decanter, or just an hour open before pouring, usually loosens a young red like this and brings out the aromatics. Use a medium-to-large tulip glass with a wide bowl, which gives the fruit room to open and focuses the aromas toward the rim.