Bordeaux Wine

La Petite Lune Rouge — Graves, Bordeaux 2022

La Petite Lune is the entry-level expression from Clos des Lunes — a project founded by the owners of Domaine de Chevalier, one of Pessac-Léognan's most celebrated Grand Cru Classé estates, in collaboration with Stéphane Dérenoncourt, widely regarded as one of the top winemakers in France. The vineyards sit a stone's throw from Chevalier's famed plots in Graves, and the wine is built on a special selection of vineyard lots handpicked by Dérenoncourt and vinified by Bernard's team at Domaine de Chevalier. The aim: a wine that is slightly more modern in styling than a classic Bordeaux, with an excellent quality-to-price ratio — and at under $20, it delivers exactly that.

The 2022 is a blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc. The nose is pretty and inviting — blackberry, dried tobacco, and herbal notes with a classic Graves character. On the palate, it's medium-bodied and mouth-filling with generous fruit, supple tannins, and a delicious, clean fruit finish. Approachable now and built for easy enjoyment.

"Founded by the owners of Domaine de Chevalier and Stéphane Dérenoncourt, one of the top winemakers in France — a Bordeaux of excellent quality-price ratio." — Clos des Lunes

• Producer: Clos des Lunes (Domaine de Chevalier & Stéphane Dérenoncourt), Graves, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Bordeaux AOC
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, dried tobacco, herbal notes, medium-bodied, supple tannins, clean fruit finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb, roast chicken, duck, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses

Grand Cru Classé pedigree and Dérenoncourt's touch at an everyday Bordeaux price — the smartest under-$20 red in the shop.

Clos des Lunes Lune d’Argent — Bordeaux Blanc 2023

Clos des Lunes is one of Bordeaux’s most compelling white wine stories — an estate in the heart of the Sauternes appellation that has dedicated itself entirely to producing world-class dry white wine from legendary sweet wine terroir. Lune d’Argent (“Silver Moon”) is the estate’s flagship cuvée, blending the density and richness of Sémillon with the refinement and precision of Sauvignon Blanc, aged with a touch of French oak to add complexity without obscuring the magic of the terroir.

The 2023 vintage was harvested in multiple passes from August 28 through September 21, allowing optimal ripeness across the blend. The result is a vibrant, medium-bodied white with vivid acidity, a chalky mineral finish, and outstanding depth — floral, orchard fruit, honeyed grapefruit, golden apple, and a lovely umami complexity from the Sémillon. Four critics, four outstanding scores.

James Suckling 93 • Vinous 92 • Jeb Dunnuck 92 • Decanter 91 — “A top value pick!”

• Producer: Clos des Lunes, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Bordeaux Blanc
• Blend: 70% Sémillon, 30% Sauvignon Blanc
• Aging: Touch of French oak
• Harvest: Multiple passes, Aug 28 – Sep 21
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Orchard fruit, honeyed grapefruit, golden apple, citrus, chalky minerality, umami complexity
• Best Paired With: Grilled lobster, pan-seared scallops, roast chicken, soft-ripened cheeses, foie gras

Sauternes terroir, dry white ambition, four 91+ scores — Lune d’Argent is one of the great white wine values in Bordeaux.

Château de Ribebon Bordeaux Supérieur — Bordeaux, France 2020

Château de Ribebon has one of the more remarkable backstories in Bordeaux — the estate was formerly a hunting lodge for King Louis XVI, and today it is part of the distinguished Aubert family portfolio, one of the most respected names in the region. Farmed from 40-year-old vines and crafted in the classic Petit Château tradition, Ribebon represents exactly what Bordeaux Supérieur does best: honest, terroir-driven wine at an accessible price, made with the same care and philosophy as estates that cost far more. The 2020 vintage is widely regarded as one of Bordeaux's finest of the last decade.

The wine pours a deep ruby. The nose is inviting and well-defined — juicy black fruits, blackcurrant, plum, spice, and a touch of toast from careful oak aging. On the palate, it's structured and well-balanced with a savory, slightly earthy character, medium-to-full body, and a smooth mouthfeel. Still young and developing, it rewards patience — best from 2025 onward, but approachable now with decanting.

"A well-balanced wine, structured and still young. Spice and toast as well as juicy black fruits. The wine is on its way, but should not be drunk before 2025." — Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, 90 Points

• Producer: Château de Ribebon (Aubert Family), Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Bordeaux Supérieur AOC
• Varietal: Merlot-dominant blend
• Vine Age: 40 years
• Size: 750ml
• Accolades: Wine Enthusiast 90 (Roger Voss)
• Drink: Best from 2025; decant if opening now
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, plum, spice, toast, earthy, structured tannins
• Best Paired With: Gourmet burgers, lamb chops with rosemary, duck confit, beef stew, mushroom risotto, aged Comté

A 90-point Bordeaux Supérieur from a former royal hunting lodge — Aubert family quality, 40-year-old vines, and one of Bordeaux's finest recent vintages at a Petit Château price.

Château Larose Trintaudon — Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois Supérieur 2019

Château Larose Trintaudon is one of the Haut-Médoc’s most celebrated Cru Bourgeois estates — elevated to Cru Bourgeois Supérieur as of the 2018 vintage, a distinction that reflects the consistent quality and ambition of this property. The 2019 vintage, one of Bordeaux’s finest in a generation, is a textbook expression of understated Médoc elegance: structured, fruit-driven, and built to age.

The nose opens with blueberry, blackcurrant, and black cherry, layered with sweet tobacco, moss, and violet edges. On the palate, the wine is fleshy and full-bodied with chewy, polished tannins, cassis, bitter plum, and a savory, mineral-tinged finish that lingers with chalky precision. Give it two to three years and it will reward handsomely.

James Suckling 93 • Decanter 90 • Wine Spectator

• Producer: Château Larose Trintaudon, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux
• Vintage: 2019
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois Supérieur, Haut-Médoc
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blueberry, blackcurrant, black cherry, tobacco, cassis, chalky minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink 2023–2032+
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck confit, aged hard cheeses

A critically acclaimed Haut-Médoc at a Cru Bourgeois price — one of the best value Bordeaux reds in the cellar.

Elegant, food-friendly, and consistently delightful, the Chateau Graville-Lacoste Graves Blanc 2024 is a benchmark expression of white Bordeaux — a classic blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle from one of the appellation's most reliable estates.

Crisp, aromatic, and refreshingly versatile, this is the kind of bottle that earns a permanent place on your table. 

Located in the Graves appellation of Bordeaux, Chateau Graville-Lacoste is a family-owned estate with a long tradition of producing expressive, terroir-driven white Bordeaux. Imported by the legendary Kermit Lynch, the estate's Graves Blanc is celebrated for its harmony, freshness, and remarkable food versatility — a wine that consistently overdelivers at its price point.

Expert Review

Madison H. Brown, Kermit Lynch Importing: “Brimming with honeysuckle, lychee, and citrus, this Bordeaux blend is reliably harmonious with Eastern cuisine — sushi, dumplings, Szechuan dishes, light curries, and vermicelli bowls all jive. I sampled a glass or two with saag paneer, butter chicken, and naan and found the Graves’ acidity a refreshing foil to the meal’s garam-masala-scented richness.”

Tasting Profile

Pale gold with bright highlights. Fresh and aromatic on the nose — honeysuckle, lychee, citrus zest, cut grass, and a hint of tropical fruit. Crisp and refreshing on the palate with lively acidity, a clean mineral backbone, and a dry, precise finish. Classic white Graves: harmonious, food-friendly, and endlessly drinkable.

Food Pairings

Serve well-chilled (44–48°F). Exceptionally versatile — pairs beautifully with sushi, dumplings, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, light curries, grilled fish, goat cheese, and fresh salads. One of the most food-friendly whites in Bordeaux.

• Producer: Chateau Graville-Lacoste
• Appellation: Graves AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Muscadelle
• Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

Château Bel-Air Lussac Saint-Émilion 2020 — Bordeaux, France

Château Bel-Air is a benchmark estate in Lussac Saint-Émilion, the satellite appellation just north of Saint-Émilion proper, where clay-limestone soils and a cooler microclimate produce Merlot and Cabernet Franc of remarkable depth and elegance. The 2020 Cuvée Jean & Gabriel — equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, raised in one-third new French oak — is a standout achievement in an exceptional vintage. James Suckling awarded it 92 points; the Wine Advocate 91; Jeb Dunnuck 90 — calling it “well worth seeking out” with 8–10 years of prime drinking ahead.

The nose is complex and inviting: crushed raspberries and blackberries, kirsch, lavender, dark spices, and a whisper of wild mushroom and damp earth. On the palate it is medium- to full-bodied, with savory layers of red and black fruit, soft tannins, and a seamless, balanced finish of outstanding length.

James Suckling 92 • Wine Advocate 91 • Jeb Dunnuck 90 — “Seamless, balanced mouthfeel and outstanding length.”

• Producer: Château Bel-Air, Lussac Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Lussac Saint-Émilion AOC
• Blend: 50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Franc
• Aging: One-third new French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, kirsch, lavender, dark spice, earthy, seamless finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–10 years
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, beef bourguignon, aged Comté, mushroom risotto

A 92-point Right Bank Bordeaux at an honest price — Château Bel-Air is the benchmark for what Lussac Saint-Émilion can be.

Critical Acclaim

Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points
"This cru bourgeois estate has produced a generously rich wine. Dense tannins and balanced acidity come from a texture that offers dusty tannins and ripe blackberry fruits. Drink from 2021."

Winemaker Description

Deep red berry aromas underscored by black pepper, crushed herbs, and licorice. Lean and elegant on the palate with lovely red currant flavors, very fine tannins, a pleasingly chewy texture, and spice on the finish.

Primary Varietals - Cabernet Sauvignon with some Merlot, Cabernet Franc

About Château Haut Queyran

Château Haut Queyran is a Cru Bourgeois estate in the Médoc appellation of Bordeaux, producing structured, terroir-driven reds from the classic Bordeaux varieties — Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The Cru Bourgeois classification, reinstated in 2020 after rigorous quality audits, recognizes estates that consistently deliver quality above their price point. At under $30, Haut Queyran represents one of the most compelling value propositions in the Médoc, offering genuine Bordeaux structure and aging potential without the grand cru price tag.

Food Pairings

Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, duck confit, mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses. Decant 30–60 minutes before serving; will continue to develop through 2028.

Product Details

• Producer: Château Haut Queyran
• Appellation: Médoc AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
• Vintage: 2018
• Style: Structured, elegant Bordeaux red
• Drink: Now–2028 (decant 30–60 min)
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description

Complex on the nose with aromas of black fruits, woody and spicy notes. On the palate, the expression is harmonious and balanced with ripe fruit and a toasted character. Silky tannins make this a perfect expression of the spirit of the Crus Bourgeois.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2018

Vinous (Neal Martin) — 92 Points
"The 2018 Prieuré de Beyzac has a really lovely bouquet of perfumed red cherries and wild strawberry with well-integrated oak. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, pinpoint acidity, and great precision toward the finish. This is one of the outstanding Cru Bourgeois of the vintage. Absolutely superb. Drinking 2023–2035."

Decanter (Georgina Hindle) — 92 Points
"Sweet red cherry and vanilla nose. Forward and energetic, with tannic weight, freshness, and very glossy fruit and oak on the palate. Drinking 2023–2030."

James Suckling — 91 Points
"Aromas of stewed blackberries, dried violets, walnuts, and dark chocolate. Medium-to-full-bodied with firm, chalky tannins. Chewy and structured. Try from 2023."

About Château Prieuré de Beyzac

Château Prieuré de Beyzac is a Cru Bourgeois estate in the Haut-Médoc appellation of Bordeaux, producing structured, terroir-driven reds from the classic Bordeaux varieties — Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. The 2018 vintage is widely regarded as one of the greatest in recent Bordeaux history, combining exceptional ripeness with natural freshness and structure. At under $25, Prieuré de Beyzac represents outstanding value for a wine earning 92-point scores from both Vinous and Decanter — and named one of the outstanding Cru Bourgeois of the vintage by Neal Martin.

Food Pairings

Roast lamb, grilled ribeye, duck confit, braised short ribs, mushroom-based dishes, and aged hard cheeses. Decant 30–60 minutes before serving; will continue to develop through 2035.

Product Details

• Producer: Château Prieuré de Beyzac
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
• Vintage: 2018
• Style: Medium-to-full-bodied, precise, cellar-worthy Bordeaux
• Drink: Now–2035 (decant 30–60 min)
• Format: 750ml

Les Allées de Cantemerle — Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux 2019

Château Cantemerle is one of Bordeaux's most storied estates — a Fifth Growth of the 1855 Classification, nestled in the southern Haut-Médoc appellation amid one of the most beautiful park settings in all of Bordeaux. Les Allées de Cantemerle is the estate's second wine, crafted primarily from the château's younger vines with a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged partly in tank and partly in barrel to avoid over-oaking, it captures the generous, fruit-forward character of Cantemerle in a more approachable, earlier-drinking style — a wine that invites sharing and friendliness even in its youth. The 2019 vintage is one of Bordeaux's finest of the decade: a warm, dry year that produced wines of exceptional ripeness, concentration, and balance.

The nose is wonderfully aromatic and expressive — the aromas really just jump out of the glass. Juicy red fruits dominate: strawberries, raspberries, and red cherries, quite bright and a refreshing change from the darker fruit profile of many Haut-Médoc wines. On the palate, it is lively and fun, light-bodied with hints of spice underneath the fruit giving structure and backbone. The finish is spicy and persistent, with the fruit-forwardness and easy-drinking style that makes this wine hard not to like.

🏆 Decanter 90 Points — "Wonderfully aromatic and expressive on the nose — the aromas really just jump out the glass. Juicy red fruits — strawberries, raspberries and red cherries. Lively and fun, light with hints of spice giving structure and backbone. Hard not to like for its fruit-forwardness and easy drinking style."

• Producer: Château Cantemerle, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2019
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC
• Classification: 2nd Wine of Château Cantemerle (1855 Fifth Growth)
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend
• Vinification: Aged partly in tank, partly in barrel
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Strawberry, raspberry, red cherry, spice, lively acidity, persistent finish
• Drink: Now through 2028
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, grilled beef, charcuterie, aged cheeses

The approachable face of a Bordeaux Fifth Growth — Les Allées de Cantemerle 2019 is lively, generous, and built for the table right now.

Château Blaignan — Médoc Cru Bourgeois 2019

With a grape-growing tradition stretching back to the 14th century, Château Blaignan is one of the Médoc’s most storied estates. The 2019 vintage — widely regarded as one of Bordeaux’s finest in a generation — showcases everything this historic property does best: ripe, structured fruit, velvet tannins, and a beautifully balanced finish that rewards both immediate drinking and patient cellaring.

The nose is intensely fruity with pronounced blackcurrant, black cherry, and a hint of spice. On the palate, dark cherry and plum compote lead the way, with tobacco, savory notes, and a pretty iron hint on the focused, fine-grained finish. Full-bodied with structure and elegance in equal measure.

Wine Enthusiast 90 • Wine Spectator 89 — “Drink now through 2029.”

• Producer: Château Blaignan, Médoc, Bordeaux
• Vintage: 2019
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois, Médoc
• Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc
• Aging: 18 months in vats and oak barrels
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, black cherry, plum compote, tobacco, spice, iron finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2029 (3–12 years from harvest)
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck, beef bourguignon, aged hard cheeses

Seven centuries of terroir knowledge in every bottle — Château Blaignan is a Médoc classic at a Cru Bourgeois price.

Château Peyrabon Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois — Bordeaux 2016

The 2016 Bordeaux vintage is widely regarded as one of the greatest of the modern era — a year of perfect balance between power and elegance, with a growing season that delivered concentration, freshness, and structure in equal measure. Château Peyrabon, situated just west of the prestigious Pauillac appellation in the Haut-Médoc, is one of the appellation's most consistent Cru Bourgeois overachievers. High in Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 is now in its prime drinking window and has earned 91 points from both Wine Enthusiast and Vinous, and 90 points from Decanter — a Best Buy by any measure at this price.

The nose is finely detailed and captivating: blackberry, raspberry, pressed flower, blackcurrant, and mineral aromas that exude class. On the palate, the wine is well-balanced and medium-to-full-bodied with fine-grain tannins, ripe generous black-currant fruit, a distinctive saline quality with touches of oyster shell and spice, and a poised, edgy finish of cedar and dark fruit. It is drinking beautifully now and will continue to evolve through 2038.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Best Buy — "With its high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine has a good structure and ripe, generous black-currant flavors. Its fresh character gives juiciness that contrasts with the rich fruits. Drink from 2023." (Vintage 2016).
Vinous 91 — "Finely detailed bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, pressed flower and mineral aromas. This exudes class. Fine grain tannin, one of the more saline Cru Bourgeois with touches of oyster shell and spice. Very fine." (Vintage 2016). 
Decanter 90 — "Rich, ripe black fruit with plenty of structural support from grippy and energetic tannins, well balanced by bright acidity. Drinking Window 2023–2038." (Vintage 2016). 

• Producer: Château Peyrabon, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2016
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC, Cru Bourgeois
• Region: Bordeaux, France
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend (Merlot)
• Drinking Window: Now – 2038
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, raspberry, blackcurrant, pressed flower, oyster shell, cedar, dark spice, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Rack of lamb, pan-seared duck breast, prime rib, wild mushroom sauté, aged Comté

A 91-point Cru Bourgeois from a legendary Bordeaux vintage at an honest price — Château Peyrabon 2016 is the benchmark for what Haut-Médoc Cabernet can deliver under $25.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023 (Barrel Samples)

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) — 90–92 Points
"A very pretty, aromatic wine. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon, dried herbs, and a kiss of French oak are all nicely delineated. This juicy, perfumed, Merlot-based Haut-Médoc is a fine choice for drinking over the next decade or so. The 2023 is absolutely delicious."

James Suckling — 91–92 Points
"A crunchy red with blackcurrant and lead-pencil character. Medium body, fine tannins, and an attractive finish. Polished and friendly. 59% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot."

Jeb Dunnuck — 89–91 Points
"A terrific Haut-Médoc with a juicy, medium-bodied, elegant style and the pure, ripe red and almost blue fruit character of the vintage. Spice, spring flowers, and hints of charcoal define the aromatics, with beautiful tannins and balance."

About Madame de Beaucaillou

Madame de Beaucaillou is a relatively new and highly regarded addition to the portfolio of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou — the legendary Second Growth estate in Saint-Julien. First released in 2019 to celebrate the estate’s 300th harvest, this cuvée is a tribute to Madame Eugène-Borie, the long-standing matriarch of the owning family. Sourced from the Haut-Médoc appellation rather than Saint-Julien, it offers the winemaking precision and pedigree of Ducru-Beaucaillou at a fraction of the grand vin price — a rare opportunity to access Second Growth DNA under $30.

Food Pairings

Grilled veal chops, roast chicken with herbs, steak frites, roasted root vegetables, savory mushroom tart, Brie de Meaux, and mild Tomme de Savoie.

Product Details

• Producer: Château Ducru-Beaucaillou (Madame de Beaucaillou)
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Blend: 59% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Medium-bodied, aromatic, Merlot-driven Bordeaux
• Drink: Now–2033
• Format: 750ml

Our Professional Review 

Starts out with sweet, slightly stewed red plum and cherry fruit on the nose and on entry, then opens up to baking spice, medicinal herbs, and crushed flowers.  Medium bodied, and very satisfying on the palate with finely etched but assertive tannins.   

Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer

Memo Summary Notes

The 2019 Château La Bastienne comes from Montagne-Saint-Émilion, one of the "satellite" appellations of Saint-Émilion. The 2019 vintage in Bordeaux is widely considered exceptional, characterized by a perfect balance of concentration, freshness, and elegance.

Our Professional Review

Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer: A fresh, bright Bordeaux Blanc with aromas of citrus and white stone fruits backed by subtle herbs and bracing minerality. Incredible complexity for an amazing price!

About the Wine Château La Rame is among the oldest and most renowned properties in the Sainte-Croix-du-Mont appellation, situated on a hill overlooking the Garonne River, 25 miles southeast of Bordeaux. While the estate is world-famous for its sweet wines, this "Sec" (dry) bottling is a sommelier favorite for its oyster-shell minerality and electric freshness.

95% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Sémillon from hillside clay-limestone soils blessed with an exceptional substratum — a bed of fossilized oysters dating from the Tertiary era. Vines average 25 years old. Manual harvest, fermented in temperature-controlled vats, and aged 6 months on fine lees.

Tasting & Pairings

Citrus, white stone fruit, subtle herbs, and bracing oyster-shell minerality. Crisp, vibrant, and electric with impressive complexity for the price.

• Fresh oysters, mussels, or moules frites — the fossilized oyster terroir meets actual oysters. A perfect match.
• Grilled white fish with lemon and sea salt — the classic Bordeaux Blanc pairing.
• Goat cheese (chèvre) — the acidity and minerality cut through creamy cheese beautifully.

Château Lilian Ladouys — Saint-Estèphe Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel 2020

Château Lilian Ladouys is one of Saint-Estèphe’s most exciting estates — and the 2020 vintage may be its finest hour. Owned by the Lorenzetti family and now classified as Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel (the top tier of the new classification), Lilian Ladouys consistently punches well above its weight, delivering Classified Growth quality at a fraction of the price. The 2020 vintage — one of Bordeaux’s greatest in a generation — is big, bold, and built for the long haul.

Dark fruits, damp earth, truffle, cassis, licorice, and a deft touch of creamy oak define the nose. On the palate, powerful yet polished tannins frame a concentrated, medium-to-full-bodied wine with exceptional length and a racy, structured finish. Already showing complexity, it will evolve gracefully for 10–15 years and beyond.

Wine Enthusiast 93–95 • Decanter 93 • Jeb Dunnuck 92 • James Suckling 92 • Robert Parker 91+

• Producer: Château Lilian Ladouys, Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux
• Vintage: 2020
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cassis, dark fruit, truffle, damp earth, licorice, creamy oak, powdery tannins
• Cellar Potential: Best after 2025–2027; will evolve through 2035+
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck confit, truffle dishes, aged hard cheeses

One of the clear leaders of the Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel category — Lilian Ladouys 2020 is a Saint-Estèphe benchmark at a remarkable price.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

Jane Anson (Inside Bordeaux) 91 Points | Crisp citrus, white pear, a ton of peach juice, slate, cloves, this is unfussy, easy drinking, and great value. Pierre Lurton home estate.

James Suckling 91 Points | Light, crispy stone fruit with gooseberries and guava. Dry, this has light to medium body and good acidity. Medium finish.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni/Neal Martin) 90 Points | Just bottled, the 2024 Marjosse is pretty hard to beat for its quality and price. Brisk, dry and inviting... White flowers, citrus peel, mint and almond linger."

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

Vinous (Neal Martin) 97 Points: Beguiling bouquet with red berry fruit, truffle and light Provençal herb scents, beautifully defined. Medium-bodied with pliant tannins — exquisite in terms of balance, silky smooth, building gradually with a harmonious and quite effortless finish. Divine. A stellar showing.

Decanter (Georgina Hindle) 97 Points: Rich, full and heady nose. Ripe blackcurrant, red cherries, raspberries and strawberries with mint, black pepper and truffle. Excellent precision and density with a seductive dark chocolate edge. Powerful, muscular and confident, yet with suppleness — density and grace with a cooling finish of liquorice, mint and soft salinity. A great wine.

James Suckling 95 Points: Perfumed nose of mulberries, plums, chocolate orange and cloves. Medium-to-full bodied with firm, ripe tannins. Caressing, velvety and rich core of dark fruit. So supple and polished. 88.5% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.5% Cabernet Franc. Drink after 2024.

Wine Advocate (William Kelley) 94 Points: Fleshy and dramatic, wafting from the glass with aromas of ripe berry fruit mingled with subtle hints of truffle and violets, new oak already entirely integrated. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless, broad and textural with lively acids, powdery tannins and fine length on the finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points: Elegant, solid Pomerol delivering spicy red and black cherry fruits, notes of cedary herbs and flowers, medium-bodied richness, silky yet building tannins, and a great finish. Will benefit from 3–5 years of bottle age and keep for 15–20 years.

Winemaker Description

Château Gazin is one of Pomerol’s most storied estates, neighboring the legendary Pétrus on the plateau’s finest clay soils. The 2019 is a benchmark expression — a blend of 88.5% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4.5% Cabernet Franc — that showcases the appellation’s signature combination of opulence and precision. Silky, seamless, and built for the long haul, it is a wine of remarkable harmony and effortless grace.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Roasted lamb rack with truffle jus, beef tenderloin, or duck confit with cherry reduction.
• Classic Bordeaux: Venison with wild mushrooms, braised short ribs, or a classic French cassoulet.
• Cheese: Aged Comté, Ossau-Iraty, or a rich washed-rind cheese.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 95 Points: Lead pencil and blackcurrant aromas are very impressive. Full-bodied and tannic, but very velvety with fine texture. Lots of pretty fruit. Typical for the appellation. Second wine of Domaine de Chevalier. Try after 2028.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points: More restrained aromatically, yet has outstanding purity in its red and black fruits as well as notes of dried herbs, tobacco, chocolate, and damp earth. Medium-bodied, elegant, balanced, and certainly delicious — a second wine that will benefit from just a year or two of bottle age and shine for a decade.

Vinous 91 Points: Very perfumed, floral bouquet with pressed iris and peony infusing the blackberry and blueberry fruit. Controlled and classic in style. Medium-bodied with concentrated black fruit laced with white pepper and Provençal herbs. Powerful with a generous finish — a superb Deuxième Vin that should give 12–15 years of drinking pleasure.

Wine Advocate 90 Points: Fleshy and demonstrative, bursting with aromas of sweet berries, plums and petals. Medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, with polished tannins and an expansive finish. Will drink well young.

Winemaker Description

Domaine de Chevalier is renowned for its ability to produce great wines even in unfashionable vintages, thanks to its unique Pessac-Léognan terroir and a draconian selection process in both vineyard and cellar — at times requiring five successive passes through the vines to pick only the ripest possible grapes. L’Esprit de Chevalier, created in 1986 from young vines and vats not destined for the grand vin, is a charming second wine that shares many of the same qualities as Domaine de Chevalier’s flagship — complex, well-balanced, and elegant — with the added advantage of being approachable earlier.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Roasted lamb rack with herbs, beef tenderloin, or duck confit.
• Classic Bordeaux: Lamb chops with truffle jus, venison, or a classic French cassoulet.
• Cheese: Aged Comté, Ossau-Iraty, or a firm sheep’s milk cheese.

Bordeaux at Its Most Approachable

Château Sénéjac is one of the Haut-Médoc's most reliable Cru Bourgeois estates, consistently delivering wines of genuine character and finesse. The 2020 vintage — widely regarded as one of Bordeaux's finest in a generation — shows beautifully here: ripe, fresh, and impeccably balanced, with the kind of energy that makes it irresistible young yet capable of rewarding patience through 2033.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Heady and seductive — rich ripe dark fruits, a gentle pot pourri lift, and inviting freshness
• Palate: Searing, mouthwatering cherry juice flavors with marked but harmonious acidity; round, polished tannins and a chalky, juicy finish
• Finish: Bright, clean, and persistent — Bordeaux fruit handled with precision

Expert Reviews

• James Suckling — 93 pts: "Blackcurrants and black cherries with cocoa, pine cones, toasted spices. Round and polished tannins with a chalky and crushed stone yet juicy finish."
• Decanter — 91 pts: "Dark fruit nature, great juicy and fresh core. Tannins are firm and supportive. Confident and characterful. Eric Boissenot consultant."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 88–90 pts: "Ample blackberry and dark cherry fruits, sappy, floral core. Pretty, fresh, nicely focused with class."

Blend & Provenance

• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Appellation: Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois
• Vintage: 2020
• Drinking Window: 2023–2033
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Ideal with roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck confit, aged hard cheeses, and classic Bordelaise preparations.

Château Prieuré-Lichine — Margaux 2020

Château Prieuré-Lichine is a jewel of the Margaux appellation — a 4ème Grand Cru Classé estate whose wines express the quintessence of one of Bordeaux's most celebrated terroirs. Certified High Environmental Value (HVE Level 3) and awarded a Best of Gold Wine Tourism prize in 2019, the estate is as committed to sustainability and hospitality as it is to winemaking excellence. The 2020 vintage is the estate's finest in a generation: seven critics weighed in, led by James Suckling at 96 points and Wine Enthusiast at 95 — a wine of extraordinary elegance, depth, and cellaring potential. Best from 2026, with a drinking window extending to 2036 and beyond.

Deep garnet-purple in color. The nose is complex and captivating — black cherries, blackcurrants, boysenberries, tobacco, cacao, licorice, dried Provence herbs, pencil shavings, and a lingering florality of roses and lavender. On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied with great intensity of pure black and red fruit, framed by firm yet creamy, grainy tannins and a lively backbone. The finish is long, beautifully balanced, and refreshingly herbal — with salty, chalky minerality that gives the wine its signature Margaux elegance and sleek, restrained power.

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2020

James Suckling — 96 Points
Black cherries, blackcurrants, tobacco, cacao and some licorice on the nose. Firm yet creamy, with very fine tannins that spread across the palate. Medium to full body. So long and beautifully balanced. Try from 2026.

Wine Enthusiast — 95 Points
This wine already shows a luscious side with its ripe black fruits and rich tannins. The obverse shows structure and acidity. Both these elements will together give a wine for aging.

Decanter — 94 Points
Ripe and deeply scented on the nose and palate, a lingering florality follows the dark black fruits from start to finish. This has a lovely richness, more textural depth than some with salty, liquorice and wet stone tannins that support the fruit and give the frame. Rich and intense but so sleek. Super glamour on show, but elegant in its presentation. Definitely mineral, a salty coolness on the finish but textured tannins giving an appealing chalkiness too. Bold but restrained and super refreshing. A great wine.

Wine Advocate — 93 Points
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Prieure-Lichine offers up notes of fresh redcurrants, blackcurrant pastilles, boysenberries and dried Provence herbs, plus wafts of tobacco leaf and pencil shavings. Medium-bodied, the palate delivers a great intensity of pure black and red fruit flavors, framed by grainy tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long with a refreshing herbal lift.

Vinous — 93 Points
The 2020 Prieuré-Lichine is elegant and nuanced, just as it was en primeur. Prieuré-Lichine is still a very good wine with real class.

Wine Spectator — 92 Points
Ripe and focused, with a violet and alder frame that marries well to the core of lightly steeped plum and black currant fruit flavors. The alder edge asserts itself on the finish, though the fruit keeps pace just a half-step behind. This should settle in with some cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2026 through 2036. 14,000 cases made.

Jeb Dunnuck — 92 Points
The 2020 Château Prieuré-Lichine has a solid perfume of redcurrants, blueberries, smoky oak, and chocolate that shows more and more floral nuances with time in the glass. Nicely textured on the palate, with medium to full-bodied richness, solid mid-palate depth, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It needs a solid 4–6 years of bottle age but is another impressive 2020 with real class.

• Producer: Château Prieuré-Lichine, Margaux, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2020
• Classification: 4ème Grand Cru Classé, Margaux AOC
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
• Style: Red Wine — Full-Bodied, Elegant, Built for Aging
• Certification: High Environmental Value (HVE Level 3)
• Production: 14,000 cases
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, blackcurrant, boysenberry, tobacco, cacao, licorice, roses, lavender, pencil shavings, salty mineral, chalky finish
• Cellar Potential: Best from 2026 — drink through 2036+
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck confit, aged hard cheeses, truffle dishes

Seven critics, one extraordinary vintage — Château Prieuré-Lichine 2020 is the benchmark for what 4ème Grand Cru Classé Margaux can achieve in a legendary year.

Pierre Lurton’s Personal Estate — Bordeaux’s Best-Value Rouge

Château Marjosse is the personal estate of Pierre Lurton — Managing Director of the legendary Château Cheval Blanc and Château d’Yquem. Located in the north of Entre-Deux-Mers, Marjosse produces some of the best-value wines in all of Bordeaux, and the 2022 Bordeaux Rouge is a standout: a Merlot-led blend with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec, earning 91 points from both Vinous and James Suckling. The clay-limestone soils preserved remarkable freshness in this hot, dry vintage.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• Vinous — 91 pts: “A bright, nervy red. Floral notes, orange peel, mint and white pepper lend notable energy throughout. An atypically vibrant wine for the year — a pretty significant shift toward greater freshness.”
• James Suckling — 91 pts: “Pretty and vibrant, showing subtle cream to the red berries, currants and citrus on the nose. Quite firm and juicy on the palate with lightly chewy tannins and a fine, medium-long finish. Drink from 2025.”
• Decanter — 90 pts: “Blue fruit, bell pepper and a touch of spice on the nose. A generous palate with well-managed tannins and darker, more brooding black fruit and violets on the finish.”

Winemaker Notes

Chateau Marjosse Bordeaux Rouge 2022 750ml

A Merlot-based blend with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec from clay-limestone soils in Entre-Deux-Mers. The 2022 vintage delivered exceptional concentration, while Marjosse’s terroir preserved the freshness and vibrancy that defines this estate’s style.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec
• Appellation: Bordeaux AOC, Entre-Deux-Mers, France
• Producer: Château Marjosse (Pierre Lurton)
• Vintage: 2022
• Soils: Clay-limestone
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A versatile Bordeaux — excellent with grilled steak, roast lamb, duck breast, mushroom risotto, and aged Comté.

Château La Plaige Bordeaux Supérieur — Bordeaux, France 2023

Perched on a hillside overlooking the river Dordogne on the eastern edge of Bordeaux, Château La Plaige is a family estate with five generations of roots and a clear sense of purpose. Since 2000, Frédéric Naud and his wife Lise have stewarded these vines with quiet dedication, carrying forward a winemaking tradition that the Naud family has maintained across more than a century. The combination of clay and limestone soils gives Frédéric the raw material to craft wines that are at once powerful and elegant — a balance that defines the estate’s character. The 2023 Bordeaux Supérieur is a meticulously crafted blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc: approachable now, yet built with the integrity to reward patience. At under $17, it is one of the most compelling values in classic Bordeaux.

The nose is fresh and inviting: forest fruits and crushed strawberry. On the palate, it is rich and silky, with dense, supple tannins and a long, elegant finish of real depth. A wine that bridges tradition and modernity — the kind of honest, food-friendly Bordeaux that belongs on every table.

• Producer: Château La Plaige (Naud family, 5 generations), Dordogne hillside, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Bordeaux Supérieur AOC
• Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
• Soils: Clay and limestone
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Forest fruits, crushed strawberry, rich, silky, supple tannins, long elegant finish
• Best Paired With: Roast lamb, duck confit, beef bourguignon, aged cheeses, charcuterie

A five-generation Bordeaux family estate at an honest price — Château La Plaige is the benchmark for what classic Bordeaux Supérieur can be.

Classic Left Bank Bordeaux at an Exceptional Price

Château Potensac is one of the Médoc’s most reliable overachievers — a Cru Bourgeois estate managed by the Delon family of Château Léoville-Las Cases, bringing Grand Cru-level precision to an appellation-level price. The 2021 is a Cabernet-driven blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, delivering classic Left Bank structure: cassis, graphite, cedar, and firm, age-worthy tannins.

Winemaker Notes

Chateau Potensac Médoc 2021 750ml

A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot from the northern Médoc, managed by the Delon family of Léoville-Las Cases. The 2021 vintage produced wines of classic structure and freshness across the Left Bank — firm, focused, and built for the cellar. Approachable from 2025 and will evolve through 2035+.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Appellation: Médoc, Bordeaux, France
• Producer: Château Potensac
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois
• Vintage: 2021
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic Bordeaux table wine — exceptional with roasted lamb, grilled ribeye, duck confit, mushroom-based dishes, aged Comté, and Ossau-Iraty.

Château Meyney — Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux 2023

Château Meyney is one of Saint-Estèphe’s great overachievers — a Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel estate situated right next to the famed Château Montrose, whose proximity to the Gironde estuary helps cool the vines during summer heatwaves and contributes to the wine’s remarkable balance and longevity. The 2023 is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, and 12% Petit Verdot, sourced from a mix of gravelly and clay soils and aged 18 months in French oak barrels. James Suckling and Jeb Dunnuck both awarded it 94 points; Vinous and The Wine Independent 93; Wine Spectator 91. Jeb Dunnuck noted that “the quality here has stepped up a notch recently” and projects a cellar window of 2029–2053.

The color is a deep, saturated purple. The nose is dark and savory: cassis, elderberry, graphite, smoky tobacco, crushed stone minerality, incense, licorice, dried herbs, and pressed lavender. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a pure, focused, layered mouthfeel — linear acidity, ripe and polished tannins, and a long, driving finish with beams of structure that demand cellaring. Drinkable now with aeration, but built to evolve beautifully over the next 25–30 years.

James Suckling 94 • Jeb Dunnuck 94 • Vinous 93 • The Wine Independent 93 • Wine Spectator 91 — "Beautifully done and going to evolve nicely over the coming 25–30 years." — Jeb Dunnuck

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 94 Points
Crunchy dark fruit with elderberries, herbal notes and licorice. The chiseled palate is medium-bodied, showing linear acidity complemented by a crisp edge. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot and 12% Petit Verdot. Drinkable now with some aeration, but better from 2028.

Jeb Dunnuck — 94 Points
Always a classic Saint-Estèphe (and I think the quality here has stepped up a notch recently), the 2023 Château Meyney comes from a mix of gravelly and clay soils and is based on 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, and 12% Petit Verdot, aged 18 months in French oak barrels. It sports a deep purple hue as well as beautiful cassis, graphite, smoky tobacco, and crushed stone-like minerality. Medium-bodied on the palate, it has a pure, focused, layered mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. It’s beautifully done and is going to evolve nicely over the coming 25–30 years if well stored. Drink 2029–2053.

Vinous — 93 Points
The 2023 Meyney is every bit as convincing as it was en primeur. Dark and quite savory, the 2023 has a lot to offer. Gravel, incense, tobacco, licorice, dried herbs, chocolate and pressed lavender infuse this mid-weight Saint-Estèphe with a good deal of character. Beams of tannin shape the insistent, driving finish.

The Wine Independent — 93 Points
2023 Meyney has a creamy, rounded and fruity nose with hints of yoghurt and dairy products. It is very soft and forthcoming and is made in the velvety, pleasant style very typical for the chateau. This is a good Meyney that should age well and be approachable at an early stage.

Wine Spectator — 91 Points
A fresh, racy-edged style, with damson plum and bitter cherry fruit framed by a chalky edge that’s embedded nicely. Iris and violet accents gild the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2033.

• Producer: Château Meyney, Saint-Estèphe, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Classification: Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel
• Appellation: Saint-Estèphe AOC, Bordeaux
• Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot
• Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cassis, elderberry, graphite, tobacco, crushed stone, licorice, dried herbs, pressed lavender
• Cellar Potential: Drink now (with aeration) or cellar through 2053
• Best Paired With: Braised lamb shoulder, côte de boeuf, duck confit, cassoulet, aged Comté, Saint-Nectaire

Five scores of 91–94 points from the world’s top critics — Château Meyney is the benchmark for what Saint-Estèphe Cru Bourgeois can be.

Wine Enthusiast 90 Points: "Succulent, fruit-forward Médoc with fresh character and light tannins typical of this vintage." (Vintage 2020). 

Château Amour 2020 is a beautifully balanced Left Bank Bordeaux from the Médoc Cru Bourgeois appellation — approachable now, yet structured for short-term cellaring.

Tasting Notes Deep ruby with vibrant red reflections

• Nose: Ripe blackcurrant, blackberry & dark cherry with cedar, tobacco and spice
• Palate: Medium-full bodied, smooth tannins, balanced acidity, rich dark fruit with subtle oak and earthy undertones
• Finish: Refined and lingering with pleasant freshness
• Primary Varietals - Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon

Production Details

• Winery: Château Amour
• Region: Bordeaux / Médoc, France
• Classification: AOC Médoc Cru Bourgeois
• Grapes: Predominantly Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon
• ABV: ~13.5% | Format: 750ml
  

Rooted in gravelly clay-limestone soils near the Gironde estuary, this wine pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled dishes, and rich cheeses.

Pomerol That Delivers Right Bank Richness and Aromatic Extravagance

Château Vieux Maillet is a small, highly regarded estate in Pomerol — the celebrated Right Bank appellation that produces some of Bordeaux’s most opulent and sought-after Merlot-based wines. The 2019 Vieux Maillet comes from an exceptional vintage across Bordeaux and delivers the hallmark Pomerol profile: succulent, aromatic, and richly textured, with the depth and fine balance to drink beautifully now or develop further through the decade.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019 

• Vinous — 94 pts: "Aromatic, effusive and charming right out of the gate. Succulent dark cherry, plum, mocha, chocolate, espresso and licorice lend striking aromatic nuance. There’s plenty of depth and fine balance to this decidedly extroverted Pomerol."
• Wine Enthusiast — 92 pts: "Superripe Merlot gives a wine that is succulent, rich, and densely packed with balanced blackberry fruits and solid tannins. The wine’s layers of ripeness promise great things. Drink from 2025."
• James Suckling — 92 pts: "Grilled herbs, iron, damp earth and subtle sweet spices on top of ripe plums, berries, potpourri and cooked grapefruit. Juicy and medium-bodied with round tannins and a fresh, composed finish of excellent length. Quite appealing for early drinking."

Producer Notes

Deep garnet-purple in color with well-expressed notes of black cherries, fresh blackberries, and black raspberries with suggestions of dried Mediterranean herbs, dark chocolate, eucalyptus, and cracked black pepper. Medium to full-bodied with vibrant black fruits, ripe rounded tannins, and a peppery lift on the finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Pomerol AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Producer: Château Vieux Maillet
• Vintage: 2019
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic Right Bank pairing — exceptional with roasted duck, lamb rack, beef tenderloin, truffle dishes, and aged Comté or Brie de Meaux.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

The Wine Enthusiast 94 Points | From a small 20-acre estate in the southern part of the prestigious Pauillac appellation, Bellegrave has produced a richly structured wine. Black-currant and toast aromas from the Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend give the wine richness and dense, concentrated black fruits.

James Suckling 94 Points | A nice smoky layer to the fresh blackcurrants, cedar and graphite. This shows the Pauillac structure and demureness with an appealing touch of dark, ashy fruit and a lead-pencil note. Full-bodied, the palate is packed with dusty, fine-grained tannins. Excellent length and verticality here. It will become even more resolved and long.

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | This is a dark and sleek offering, with gently mulled black currant and blackberry fruit dusted with a cocoa note and gilded with violet and dried anise accents. A light kiss of singed cedar underscores the fresh finish.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2022 Chateau Bellegrave Pauillac is a standout vintage from this boutique 20-acre estate, which sits in a prestigious neighborhood between legendary neighbors like Chateau Latour and Lynch-Bages.

Pair with 

Best served with roasted lamb, a thick ribeye with rosemary, or a mushroom-heavy risotto.

Winemaker Description

Ronan by Clinet is an approachable wine that reflects the style and savoir-faire of a prestigious Pomerol winery. It is a fresh, fruit-forward and delicately spiced wine, ready to drink now or age for several years – the perfect choice for a spontaneous after-work treat or a dinner party with friends.

Winemaker Description 

Decanter 88 Points | Very fresh and peachy aromas on the nose. Broad and oily, lively and delicious, rich finish. (Bronze). (2022).

Memo Summary Notes

Ronan by Clinet Bordeaux Blanc 2022 is a crisp, modern white Bordeaux produced by the technical team at the prestigious Château Clinet in Pomerol. It is designed to be an accessible, high-quality "daily drinker" that showcases the freshness of the region's white varieties.

Pair with a refreshing aperitif, poolside sipping, or pairing with light seafood dishes like monkfish, grilled snapper, or fresh oysters.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points | Spice-laden red and black fruits, leafy tobacco, savory flowers, and new leather notes all shine in the 2022 Château Tour Saint Christophe, another brilliant wine from this team. I love its complexity, and it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with fine tannins, a layered, elegant mouthfeel, beautifully integrated oak, and a great finish. Based on 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc.

James Suckling 96 Points | A very good year for Tour Saint Christophe, showing great depth and flavor despite high alcohol. Abundant dark minerals, fresh blackberries, black olives and a hint of cocoa powder. Pretty full-bodied and firm with crunchy, reactive tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Lots of density here.

Decanter 94 Points | Gorgeously scented on the nose, smooth, round and focused with purity and persistence. Tannins are so fine, really sculpting this wine, with a clear bite and almost strict tang to the overall structure giving a sense of tension. I like the terroir aspect, the saltiness but still with juicy richness. Less ample than Bellefonte but more precise. 

The Wine Advocate 93+ Points | This first vintage under the denomination of Grand Cru Classé, the 2022 Tour Saint Christophe is excellent, offering up aromas of spices, cassis, dark wild berries, orange peel and licorice mingled with delicate oaky notes. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and concentrated, it's layered and textured and framed by powdery, velvety tannins enhanced by a racy, pure, fresh finish. It should gain raciness with some time in the cellar.

Château du Parc is a boutique Saint-Émilion estate crafted by Dr. Alain Raynaud and Damien Landouar — two names with deep roots in the Right Bank. Raynaud, formerly of Château Quinault l'Encélos, brings a philosophy of precision and restraint to this Merlot-dominant blend, producing a wine that punches well above its price point in one of Bordeaux's most celebrated appellations.

The Château du Parc Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2016 750ml is an 80/20 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc from the exceptional 2016 vintage. It opens with redolent aromas of succulent ripe red fruit, blackberries, heather, graphite, and flinty notes, with cedary oak influence adding complexity. On the palate, lush red fruit and plummy dark cherry are framed by elegant, well-integrated tannins, fresh acidity, and a focused, juicy core with impressive length and balance. Surprisingly fresh and cool for the vintage — very classy and delicious.

Expert Reviews

• Forbes (Tom Mullen) — 95 Points: "Redolent and rich aromas of succulent, ripe red fruit, blackberries and heather. A delight on the nose. Lush red fruit flavors mid-palate, with both delicate and elegant tannins and fresh acidity."
• James Suckling — 94 Points: "Attractive graphite and flinty notes with deeply ripe red and purple fruit, as well as cedary oak influence. Succulent, juicy and focused core with impressive length and balance. Great wine."

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Ripe red fruit, blackberry, heather, graphite, and cedary oak
• Palate: Plush and plummy with dark cherry, elegant tannins, and fresh acidity
• Finish: Long, focused, and impressively balanced

Wine Details

• 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
• Saint-Émilion Grand Cru AOC, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2016 | 750ml

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

Wine Spectator 96 Points | #13 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2025. Energetic tumble of blackberry, boysenberry and blackcurrant paste injected with bramble and apple wood, supported by a licorice snap accent. Strapping finish laced with violet and iris notes, with a cast iron edge lending bass. Best from 2027 through 2045.   

James Suckling 96 Points | Extremely attractive aromas of blackcurrants and dried flowers with fresh herbs like basil and rosemary. Medium to full body with firm and velvety tannins, tension and focus. Long and chewy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points | "One of the all-time greats from this château." Smoky currants, tobacco leaf, leather, and chocolaty notes. Sensationally textured, concentrated, medium to full-bodied. Plenty of mid-palate depth, ripe building tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Raised in 60% new oak. Three decades of longevity.

About the Wine

Château Talbot is a 4th Growth (Quatrième Cru Classé) estate in Saint-Julien, one of the Haut-Médoc’s most prestigious appellations. Named after the English commander John Talbot, the estate has been producing benchmark Left Bank Bordeaux for centuries. The 2022 vintage is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, aged in 60% new French oak.

With a Wine Spectator Top 100 placement and Dunnuck calling it "one of the all-time greats," the 2022 is a landmark vintage for Talbot.

Tasting & Pairings

Blackcurrant, blackberry, boysenberry, tobacco, leather, chocolate, dried flowers, basil, rosemary, violet, and iris. Medium to full body with firm, velvety tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2045+.

• Rack of lamb with herbs de Provence — the herbal aromatics and firm tannins are a classic Bordeaux match.
• Dry-aged côte de boeuf — the wine’s concentration and structure demand serious beef.
• Aged Comté or Roquefort — the tobacco and chocolate notes complement rich, complex cheeses.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Enthusiast by Roger Voss writes 93 Points | Ripe and beautifully textured, this is a balanced wine. It comes from an estate just inland from the Gironde estuary, giving richness, a licorice aroma and finely delineated black currant fruits. Drink the wine from 2028. 

James Suckling 91+ Points | Firm and compact with juicy dark fruit and a hint of spice. Medium body. Firm and chewy finish.

Winemaker Description 

Intense deep purple robe. Seductive and intense nose of cassis, raspberries, spices, vanilla and unctuous grilled and toasty aromas. Well-structured wine that is at the same time rich and lush in the mouth with smooth tannins and a very long finish.

Producer Notes

Domaine de Chevalier is one of Pessac-Léognan’s most celebrated Grand Cru Classé estates, renowned for producing wines of extraordinary precision, freshness, and longevity. The 2020 is widely regarded as one of the legendary wines from this address — a wine that effortlessly triumphs over the heat and drought of the vintage to produce something nuanced, pure, and deeply classical. The blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Pure cassis, graphite, lead pencil, and scorched earth on the nose. Full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins, no hard edges, and a finish of extraordinary length. Best from 2027, with the potential to evolve for 50+ years.

65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

• Jeb Dunnuck 98+ pts | Pure cassis, graphite, lead pencil, and scorched earth. Full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. Pure, classic, regal Pessac-Léognan. Drink 2027–2077.
• James Suckling 97–99 pts | Purity of fruit is really something — blackcurrants, blackberries, orange, stone, and granite. Full-bodied with very fine, polished tannins. Great length. One for the cellar. Drink after 2030.
• Vinous 96 pts | Bright, poised, and wonderfully pure. Red cherry, blood orange, mint, star anise, and cinnamon. Built on aromatic presence and persistence. What a wine! Drink 2030–2060. — Antonio Galloni
• Decanter 96 pts | Blueberry and blackcurrant with liquorice, tobacco, and bitter chocolate spices. Precision and clarity. Rich, heady, and super promising. Drink 2028–2055. — Georgina Hindle
• Wine Spectator 95 pts | Cassis, plum, blackberry, warm loam, smoldering tobacco, and singed alder. Long and deep through the fine-grained finish. Best from 2028–2038. — James Molesworth
• Jane Anson 95 pts | Cinnamon, turmeric, black pepper, creamy cassis, blackberry, bilberry, cigar box, and smoked earth. A brilliant Chevalier. Drink 2027–2048.
• WK 95+ pts | Minty blackberries and cassis with burning embers, spices, rose petals, and orange rind. Fleshy and concentrated with powdery tannins and a long, saline finish. Drink 2028–2060. — William Kelley
• Jancis Robinson 18/20 | Effortlessly triumphs over the heat and drought of 2020. Nuanced, promising, with trademark freshness. Bravissimo! Drink 2030–2050.

Food Pairings

• Prime dry-aged ribeye or rack of lamb
• Roasted duck or slow-braised short ribs
• Aged Comté or Époisses
• Truffle dishes or wild mushroom risotto

The golden-yellow exterior of Château Lafon-Rochet is visible from afar as one ascends the D2 road through the Médoc — a bold, warm landmark that reflects the passion and commitment of everyone who makes its wines. One of Saint-Estèphe's oldest estates, with origins dating to the 16th century, Lafon-Rochet was classified as a Quatrième Grand Cru Classé in 1855. In late 2021, the Lorenzetti family acquired the estate, bringing in Technical Director Christophe Congé — formerly of Lafite-Rothschild — to lead a new chapter of precision and ambition.

The Château Lafon-Rochet Saint-Estèphe 2022 750ml signals that new era emphatically. The 2022 vintage brings more richness and mid-palate intensity than in the past, while preserving the estate's signature elegance. Fresh strawberry and red cherry on the nose give way to a palate of gorgeous weight and suppleness — currants, cassis, graphite, dark chocolate, and crushed stone — with ripe, building tannins and a long, precise finish. Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls it "the most elegant wine in Saint-Estèphe." An exciting new chapter for a great estate.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• Vinous (Antonio Galloni) — 95–97 Points: "Fabulous. Once again, Lafon-Rochet is the most elegant wine in Saint-Estèphe. The 2022 signals a new era for the château. It's an exciting time."
• Decanter — 95 Points: "An exceptional wine in 2022. Smooth and round, generous and deep, with lovely precision. Extremely complete and well made with control and finesse."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 95 Points: "Seriously good, concentrated, powerful expression with beautiful purity, ripe, building tannins, and a great finish."
• James Suckling — 94 Points: "Dark chocolate, cigar box, blackcurrants, white pepper and graphite. Very juicy and nicely chewy on the palate, with a full body and a tight, lengthy finish."
• Wine Advocate — 91 Points: "Rich, ripe, full-bodied, soft and fat palate with sweet jammy berries, fig preserve, licorice and creamy new oak."

Wine Details

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Saint-Estèphe AOC, 4ème Grand Cru Classé, Bordeaux, France
• Vintage: 2022
• 750ml

#1 Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2025  |  #8 James Suckling Top 100 Wines of the World 2025

Château Giscours, a Grand Cru Classé in 1855, is one of Margaux’s most storied estates — and the 2022 vintage may be its finest hour. With almost 60% of the blend drawn from vines over 50 years old, and a historic yield of just 27 hl/ha, this is a wine of extraordinary depth, precision, and generational ambition.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

98 pts — James Suckling: “Stunning aromas of blackcurrants, dark mushrooms and black cherries with forest-floor notes. Full body with fine, caressing tannins and dark, flavorful fruit. The tannins are very intense and structural, spreading across the palate in layers. Plenty of energy and verve. This has gravity, too. Best after 2029.”

97+ pts — Jeb Dunnuck: “Packed with cassis, black cherries, violets, and graphite-like aromatics. Concentrated and intense, with beautifully ripe tannins, a pure, graceful mouthfeel, and a long, structured finish. Serious depth with remarkable balance.”

96 pts — Wine Advocate: “Deep bouquet of sweet berries, mint, rose petals and pencil shavings. Textural and enveloping, built around lively acids and sweet powdery tannins, concluding with a long, resonant finish. Why is the 2022 so good? Almost 60% of the blend derives from vines over 50 years old — in a vintage that favored deep, well-established root systems.”

96 pts — Decanter: “Seriously impressive and beguiling — one of the most elegant Giscours ever. Gorgeous clarity and purity, gentle seduction, fresh and lifted, fragrant and juicy with textured tannins. Elegant, finessed, subtle confidence with cool minerality throughout. A compelling wine. Possible upscore in bottle.”

95 pts — Wine Spectator: “Warmed cassis and plum notes, with lilac, violet and iris accents. A flash of black tea on the finish, along with a beguiling, cashmere-like mouthfeel. A pitch-perfect example of the vintage profile.”

• Appellation: Margaux AOC, Bordeaux
• Blend: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc
• Vintage: 2022
• Ageing: 17 months, 50% new oak
• Yield: 27 hl/ha — lowest in estate history
• Drink: Best after 2029 | Will age beautifully for decades
• 750ml | Serve at 60–65°F

Expert Review - Vintage 2014

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points by Roger Voss | This is a ripe wine, already approaching maturity. It has rich tannins and a generous structure. The wine is full with plenty of black fruits and balanced acidity. Black currants and spices mingle easily. The wine will be ready to drink from 2018. 

Winemaker Description

On the nose, the wooden, toasted, and spicy notes stand out. Ripe red fruit notes are present. On the palate, it has a frank, very round onset with a beautiful evolution towards acidity. The red fruits are present throughout the tasting, and the tannins are well blended and round. An elegant and smooth wine.

Cotes de Castillon, with its rolling steep slopes of hills and valleys created by the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, is one of the most recognized and fashionable appellations of Bordeaux with several prominent winemakers purchasing châteaux here.

Its vineyards are located east of Saint-Émilion and south of Fronsac which proves to be advantageous as it provides excellent exposure to the sun, and the climate is slightly warmer and drier than most of Bordeaux. It is devoted solely to the production of red wine, and the dominant grape varieties planted are Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

The wines are known for being concentrated, fruity, and typified by strong black currant notes. They also have a good price to quality ratio and can be enjoyed young and age just as tastefully.

Cotes de Castillon is also committed to environmentally-sound practices and sustains one of the highest concentration of growers using either organic, biodynamic, or self-sustaining farming techniques. 

Where battlefields once roared, vineyards now thrive. Cotes de Castillon is steeped in history and was actually named after the last battle ‘Castillon la Bataille’ that ended the Hundred Years’ War in 1453 between England and France.

Roman ruins, old churches, and stunning châteaux provide a colorful glimpse into the region’s rich past.

Château Moya is a certified organic estate located in the Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux appellation, next to Saint Émilion in Bordeaux, France. The 20-acre property is located on a clay-limestone hill some 230 feet above the valley floor with a stunning 360-degree panoramic view.

Its pristine vineyards are tended to by the same team managing Château Gaby, and between 30,000-40,000 bottles are produced annually since the first vintage in 2009.

Château Moya has been certified organic by ECOCERT since the 2013 vintage.

Organic wines have become increasingly popular in Bordeaux and around the world not only for the longevity of soil and environmental factors but also for the quality of the wine.

Recognizable for its opulence, finesse, and well-balanced persistence, Château Moya is one of the finest Bordeaux wines in the region.