Wine of the Week: Chateau Baruaud Bordeaux 2015

Some widespread perceptions of Bordeaux — that the wines are too spendy and unapproachable — need to be quashed. And the Chateau Baruaud Bordeaux 2015, costing a whopping $9, is just the wine to accomplish the feat. This is an affable red, with tasty fruit and characteristic Bordeaux earthy/herbal notes, but with plenty of backbone and length. A blend of 70 percent cabernet sauvignon and 30 percent merlot, this French red boasts soft but not wimpy tannins and a smooth finish. Besides being a great party option, it's well-suited for burgers, pizzas and heftier fare such as roasted meats and root vegetables.

Available at East Lake, East Side, WineStreet Spirits, McCafferty's, Atomic, MGM Calhoun and others.