Bordeaux Wine Month returns – and we’re delighted to be involved once again. All September, we’ll be shining a light on the Right and Left Bank styles that make Bordeaux so compelling, with free in-store tastings, limited allocations and a focus on producers who marry quality with integrity.
What’s on
Throughout September we’ll host relaxed free in-store tastings at Wimbledon Village and Parsons Green, pouring a rotating selection from our Bordeaux line-up. Keep an eye on our socials and newsletter for weekly line-ups and dates, then drop in to taste, compare and discover your next house favourite.
Featured wines for 2025
1) Château Lucas – Lussac-Saint-Émilion
Why it matters: A historic Right Bank estate (est. 1876) that blends family tradition with modern precision. Expect plush Merlot fruit framed by fine tannins and gentle oak polish – classic bistro Bordeaux with real pedigree.
Pair it with: Roast lamb, duck breast, mushroom ragù.
Friarwood says: Generous, textural and quietly age-worthy – the definition of dependable Saint-Émilion satellite charm.
2) Château Graves du Champ des Chails 2023 – Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux
Wine at a glance: Red • Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec • 13% ABV • Aromatic & charming • France, Bordeaux
About the wine: From Vignobles Gabriel & Co, a pioneering Right Bank collective founded on fair pay, quality improvement and environmental responsibility. Part of the Fair for Life programme.
Tasting notes: Bright cherry and cassis with delicate toasted accents. Supple and rounded on the palate, fresh and elegant on the finish.
Pair it with: Tomato-based pasta, grilled pork, charcuterie, fresh cheeses.
Friarwood says: Effortless drinkability with ethics to match – a brilliant everyday Bordeaux.
3) Fleur de Fonplégade 2018 – Saint-Émilion
Wine at a glance: Red • Merlot & Cabernet Franc • 14.5% ABV • Aromatic & charming • France, Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion
About the wine: The deuxième vin of Château Fonplégade, crafted for immediate appeal while echoing the château’s limestone-driven poise.
Tasting notes: Juicy red-berry fruit, a silky mid-palate and friendly, polished tannins from an excellent estate vintage.
Pair it with: Roast beef, slow-cooked stews, lamb chops.
Friarwood says: Crowd-pleasing Saint-Émilion – perfect for dinner parties when you want zero risk and maximum smiles.
4) Château Vignol 2023 – Bordeaux Blanc
Wine at a glance: White • Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris • 13.5% ABV • Fruity & easy • France, Bordeaux
About the wine: A long-established family estate with roots back to the 18th century. Fresh, zesty and brilliantly versatile.
Tasting notes: Apple, pear and melon on the nose; crisp green-apple bite on the palate with a subtle hint of matcha on the finish.
Pair it with: Creamy chicken, grilled white fish, salads and seafood pasta.
Friarwood says: Benchmark value in white Bordeaux – stock the fridge.
Join us in celebrating Bordeaux
Whether you’re deep into Left vs Right Bank debates or just starting your Bordeaux journey, our September tastings are designed to be welcoming, informative and delicious. Explore the range in-store or online, ask our team for food-pairing tips, and discover bottles to suit every occasion.
Shop Bordeaux at Friarwood this September – with Free Delivery on orders over £150 and collection available from our Wimbledon & Parsons Green shops.
