2018 La Croix d'Argent Bordeaux Superieur, France

And in the world of French wine, the term “Bordeaux Superieur” is a reference to wines from a part of France’s Bordeaux appellation that are crafted from the classic Bordeaux grape varieties — wines that are a cut above other Bordeaux cuvees.

These wines rely heavily on Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, and typically use much smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Within the appellation, only about 11,600 acres of vineyards are designated for Bordeaux Superieur wines. Compare that to the Bordeaux region as a whole, which has around 274,000 acres under vines.

La Croix d’Argent makes an outstanding rendition of Bordeaux Superieur, and the 2018 vintage is dark garnet in color and brimming with fruit and oak nuances. It’s a truly special wine from a place that is devoted to special wines — to “Superieur” wines.