I got a call from a wine loving friend of mine with this incredulous question: “Is Thomas making Bordeaux varieties?” The ‘Thomas’ to which he refers is Mr. Bachelder, who has made a name for himself, in Ontario anyway, as a master of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir … so seeing him work with Cabernet Franc and Merlot seem a little strange to many. This 75 Franc / 25 Merlot blend is derived from the 5 year old vines on the Queylus properties. Nose is tobacco leaf, raspberry and white pepper; followed on the palate with cigar-smoke, raspberry, white pepper and a nice spicy element. And yes my friend(s) Thomas is making Bordeaux (varieties), quite well I might add. Price: $45.00 – Rating: *** ½+