Château la Valade, Premières Côtes de Blaye

Last month, we enjoyed a nice bottle of Château la Valade Premières Côtes de Blaye.  It was a Total Wine purchase for $10 that I picked up before Christmas.  When I went back to Total Wine last weekend, they'd hiked the price to $12 (typical Total Wine sales ploy, hook'em, and then reel in the fish).  It was a good Bordeaux.  85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.  Alfio Moriconi, total Wine's European buyer / negotiant has consistently good selections.   I disagree with the very negative drync review here (link).  I thought it was well rounded and didn't find any 'metallic' tastes. 

It went well with steaks, grilled vegetables, and spicy Mexican dishes.  It was worth the $10 I paid for it, but I always hesitate on wines over $10, so I can't say as I'll buy it again - at least not from Total Wine for $12.  You can find it here and here et ici.