Divin de Corbin Saint-Emilion AOC 2014

Bordeaux is split into two banks (Left and Right) by an estuary and two rivers. The Gironde estuary divides into the Dordogne and Garonne rivers - the Right Bank is the area to the north of the Dordogne River and the Left Bank is the area south of the Garonne River.

The most important appellations of the Right Bank are Saint-Emilion AOC and Pomerol AOC. Right Bank wines are predominantly Merlot-based (compared to the Left Bank's Cabernet Sauvignon dominant wines) and the terroir is comprised of a limestone surface with more clay and less gravel. The wines from this area tend to be plummy, rich in fruits, and soft in texture with less tannin and acid. These wines can also age well and develop complex aromas over time. I had reviewed the bottle of the Sotheby's Pessac-Léognan (which is from the Left Bank) a few weeks ago, so I'm excited to compare tasting notes on the two wines from two different banks.

My tasting notes on the Chateau Corbin Divin de Corbin 2014, Saint-Emilion AOC, Bordeaux ($25):

• See: Deep ruby color with a brownish hue and medium intensity

• Sniff: This wine is aromatic with rich red and black fruits (cherry, black plum, and blackcurrants) with subtle notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cocoa. It also has hints of mushrooms.

• Sip & Savor: The wine has a silky mouthfeel with a medium body and medium tannins. It has bright acidity from tart cherry and cranberry flavors, which are followed by earthy notes. There are flavors of dried herbs and smoke on the back-palate with a silky, smooth finish. As I continued sipping on this wine, I also got flavors of black coffee. It's a well-balanced and refined wine - better to enjoy with food than to drink on its own.