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2005, Chateau Gonin, Bordeaux, approx. $12

I was in a rush on the way home from work.  I cut out a slight bit early and volunteered to cook dinner.  So, I picked up some center cut pork chops and walked next door to check out the wine section.  Having recently (read below) found that 2005 Bordeaux wines were for the most part, flavorful and not over powering, I headed right for the hanging “France” sign.  Yes, I probably should be over at the Pinots or even Chardonnays.  The selection was poor, but this one caught my eye.  It didn’t look familiar and the approximately $10 price tag seemed worth a shot.  I ultimately made the chops by searing them in the pan and then deglazing the pan with brandy and finally adding some butter milk since it was going to expire soon.  The sauce turned out surprisingly good, but I should have made more.  Also, I could have done the chops a bit less since they were such a thin cut.  The wine paired nicely since it was in a word … simple but definitely not flat (see other poor choices below).  If you are looking for a Bordeaux wine that won’t encroach on your meal and definitely won’t deplete your wallet, this wine fits the bill.