What’s Behind The Mystery?
First, take the history and winemaking skills of Bordeaux’s Néel-Chombart family which goes back to the 16th century. They are owners of Chäteau Lamothe de Haux. Then we have the Speck brothers (Henry of Pelham), original pioneering family winemakers in the Niagara Peninsula. A collaboration between the two could only be ideal. Cabernet Sauvignon is the world’s most widely planted red wine variety. And Bordeaux, France, is its epicenter. Start with one hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon from prime vineyards situated on Right Bank clay and limestone based slopes that are at least 20 years old. After fermentation, ten months aging in oak barriques are followed by another two years of bottle maturation. In the background, the Speck brothers regularly liaise and consult with the Chombarts on all aspects of the wine’s production.
Deciding on a brand name, Cave de Mystère, was easy as there is a great story behind it. The cellars of Chäteau Lamothe de Haux date back to the 1700s, when kilometers of limestone caves beneath the vineyards were excavated to provide building materials for the construction of the city of Bordeaux. These caves have provided shelter since prehistoric times, and the walls bear the marks of both primitive tools and the pickaxes of 18th-century French labourers. The dug out caves provide, fortuitously, the perfect underground cellars ideal for ageing.
Complex with black currant and sandalwood aromas, well integrated tannins and a long finish are highlights of this Bordeaux red from the classic vintage of 2020. Enjoy with your favourite meat dish.
2020 Chombart & Speck Cave Mystère Cabernet Sauvignon LCBO #39096, $19.95