Château La Tessonnière Cru Artisan Médoc 2020 is a classically styled Bordeaux red wine from the Left Bank, offering an appealing combination of ripe fruit, freshness and fine tannins. Produced by the fifth generation of the family behind the estate, this traditional Médoc blend brings together Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a small proportion of Cabernet Franc. Aromas of blackcurrant and raspberry are complemented by subtle graphite and spice, leading to a lively, balanced palate and a smooth, rounded finish.
 
The estate's history dates back to the early 20th century, when Alphonse Chevreux established Château La Tessonnière after the family acquired vineyards in Civrac-en-Médoc and Bégadan. The château takes its name from Tessoun, an old Gascon expression referring to a badger's burrow, reflecting the abundance of badgers once found on the property. In 1995, Cédric Colemyn, the founder's great-grandson, took over the estate as the fifth generation of family winemakers. His investment in the vineyards and commitment to quality helped establish Château La Tessonnière's Cru Artisan status.
 
The 18-hectare estate is situated approximately 70 kilometres north-west of Bordeaux, on the western side of the Gironde estuary. Its vineyards are planted on clay-limestone ridges, where the moisture-retaining properties of clay combine with the drainage provided by limestone. The vines average 25 years of age and are planted at a density of approximately 6,500 vines per hectare. Château La Tessonnière follows sustainable vineyard practices and holds Haute Valeur Environnementale Level 3 (HVE3) certification, recognising its approach to biodiversity, vineyard management and environmental responsibility.
 
The 2020 blend comprises 52% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc. Following careful selection, the grapes are fully destemmed and fermented in stainless-steel tanks and concrete vats at controlled temperatures averaging 26°C. Twice-daily pump-overs help develop colour, flavour and structure. The wine is then matured for 18 months in vats before being bottled without fining, preserving its fruit character and approachable texture.
 
Rather than relying on pronounced oak influence, Château La Tessonnière focuses on the traditional qualities of Médoc: fresh blackcurrant fruit, subtle savoury complexity and well-balanced tannins. The result is an elegant and versatile claret, equally suited to a Sunday roast, a relaxed dinner or those looking to explore the character of smaller, family-run Bordeaux estates.
 
Tasting Notes
 
Nose: Blackcurrant and raspberry aromas, complemented by subtle graphite and gentle spice.
Palate: Lively and balanced, with fresh red and black fruit flavours, fine tannins and an elegant structure.
Finish: Smooth and rounded, with lingering fruit and delicate savoury notes.
 
Serving Recommendation & Food Pairing
 
Serve at approximately 16–18°C in a Bordeaux wine glass. The wine's balanced structure and fine tannins make it approachable without requiring extended decanting, although allowing it a little time in the glass can help its fruit and savoury aromas develop.
 
Château La Tessonnière 2020 pairs particularly well with roast beef, lamb, grilled steak and traditional French dishes. Its fresh fruit and restrained tannins also make it a good match for roast chicken, mushroom-based recipes and mature cheeses.
 
For a classic pairing, serve alongside roast lamb with rosemary and garlic, or a Sunday roast with beef and all the trimmings.