This award-winning wine is an example of the amazing value available from Bordeaux's lesser-known appellations. A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, it's the perfect choice for the last barbecues of the summer - and it makes a great transition wine as we move into cooler fall nights.

Tasting Note: Lovely aromas of sweet cherry and raspberry are rounded out by subtle vanilla and a touch of licorice. Very well balanced with just the right mix of ripe fruit, savoury woodsiness and elegant oak. It's showing some nice development, but there's more to come - this would be a terrific and inexpensive cellar-starter.

Enjoy With: Rare grilled steaks, venison stew or aged cheeses.

Style: Dry, medium- to full-bodied red wine.

Terroir / Region: This dynamic region on the fringes of Bordeaux's right bank is an eastern extension of St. Emilion and its satellites. Many of the well-structured, Merlot-based wines are made by offshoots of famous houses eager to take advantage of (relatively) inexpensive land that shares many of the characteristics of more famous Bordeaux appellations.

Producer: With a winemaking history that predates the French Revolution, the Aubert family has deep roots. They're known for the wines they produce in the classic regions of Pomerol and St. Emilion (most notably Château la Couspaude), but they've fully embraced the movement into Côtes de Castillon. Château Hyot comes from various old-vines parcels that extend east beyond their St. Emilion vineyards and pays tribute to the reputation they’ve built over generations.

Availability: 450 cases will be released officially on Saturday, September 4 in Vintages. But check the LCBO website, since some stores' shelves are already stocked. Look for it in the French section.