Top Quality Store
| 2016 Chateau Pape Clement (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
 6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Described as "one of the great terroirs in Bordeaux" by Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, here's a fantastic opportunity for fans of opulently styled, Left Bank blends to stock up on some of the top scoring recent vintages of the iconic Chateau Pape Clement, including both the red and white Grand Vin and the estate's outstanding "second" Le Clementin Rouge, all highly rated Pessac-Leognan wines known for their impeccable balance and elegance and now available at unbeatable pricing. Among the oldest Bordeaux estates dating back to the 13th century, Chateau Pape Clement employs a mix of traditional methods and state of the art technology to craft its terroir-expressive wines under the direction of innovative owner Bernard Magrez and famed enologist Michel Rolland, the neo-Gothic Left Bank Chateau surrounded by 60 hectares of vineyards sharing the deep gravel soils and unique microclimate of neighboring First Growth Haut-Brion. Produced with the same care and methods as the Grand Vin, the elegant Merlot-dominated 92 pt. Le Clementin de Pape Clement offers "a glimpse into the personality of Pape Clement" according to Antonio Galloni of Vinous from "a fabulous vintage for Bordeaux," while Jeb Dunnuck describes the "impeccable" 94 pt. 2018 Le Clementin as "gorgeous" with "loads of upfront charm," both superb values and ready to enjoy over the next decade. Calling it "about as sexy as it gets in the vintage," Jeb Dunnuck describes the opulent 98 pt. 2016 Chateau Pape Clement as "perfectly balanced" while the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth labels it "plush and suave through the finish" with a "cashmere-textured style." Boasting "fantastic concentration and seamless integration" according to James Suckling, the muscular 99 pt. 2018 Chateau Pape Clement is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, described as "a powerful, massively textured wine" by the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss with a long-lived, mineral-driven finish that's built to age for over three decades according to the Wine Advocate's Lisa Perrotti-Brown. Equally renowned for their exceptional Bordeaux Blanc, the bright and aromatic 97 pt. 2019 Chateau Pape Clement Blanc is "beautifully complex and well-put together" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, a refreshing, elegant blend of mostly Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon that's "drinking well out of the gates" according to the Wine Advocate's William Kelley and is set to evolve over the next 15 years or more. From the overachieving Le Clementin de Pape Clement boasting the pedigree of the Grand Vin at a fraction of the price, to the opulently styled Pape Clement Rouge built for decades of aging and the impressive, multi-layered Pape Clement Bordeaux Blanc that's a must for collectors of the world's best white wines, these top scoring selections boast a "sense of confidence that is the signature of the property" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, each uniquely reflecting their outstanding Pessac-Leognan terroir and all equally outstanding values promising enjoyment for years to come. | ||
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| 2018 Chateau LaTour Martillac Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Latour-Martillac remains one of the great value estates on the Left Bank, and this is especially true in outstanding vintages like the ones on offer today. With classic Graves terroir and expert winemaking, these wines consistently punch way above their weight class, as you can clearly see in the bevy of excellent press that accompanies each one. The highlights of the list are undoubtedly the 96-point 2019, which is "gorgeous, so bright and precise," delivering unreal bang for the buck at under $40, and the astounding 97-point 2022. Jeb Dunnuck dubs this powerhouse "a remarkably pure, medium to full-bodied Pessac-Léognan ... a brilliant 2022 that should be snatched up by readers." Of course, sharp-eyed collectors shouldn't over the 95-point 2018 or the "harmonious and well-defined" 2020. Last but certainly not least, the estate's white has always served as a reference-point for the category, made in part from Semillon vines over 140 years old. With 94-point potential according to several critics, the 2023 Blanc is "beautifully textured, rich, yet still racy white with tons to love," proving once again that Graves' whites are sometimes every bit as compelling as its reds. Whether you pick your favorite or go in for the whole vertical, you can rest assured you're getting some of the best quality-to-price character that the Left Bank has to offer. | ||
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| 2018 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More A rare and exciting opportunity to acquire top vintages from the renowned Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte of Pessac-Leognan declared "among the best in the appellation" by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, all earning 95 plus pt. ratings including multiple 100 pt. perfect scores and some already aged over 10 years in pristine cellar conditions, offered at value pricing and available in original wooden cases. Located on the outskirts of the city of Bordeaux in the Left Bank commune of Martillac, the exquisitely restored 14th century Château Smith Haut Lafitte is a destination in itself, earning a rising reputation for the remarkable quality of the Grand Vin since acquired by Florence and Daniel Cathiard in 1990. Implementing a mix of age-old techniques with state-of-the-art technology, the biodynamically farmed 87-hectare vineyard is plowed with horses while employing advanced satellite imagery to determine optimal ripeness, planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon on deep gravel soils covered with quartz pebbles. Produced under the direction of top consultants including Michel Rolland and Stephane Derenoncourt, the Grand Vin is aged for between 16 to 18 months in mostly new French oak barrels custom-crafted on-site at Smith Haut Lafitte, the only Chateau outside of the First Growths boasting its own cooperage. Described as the "vintage that made everyone sit up and take notice of Smith Haut Lafitte" by Jane Anson, the powerful 100 pt. 2009 SHL offers rich, ripe fruit with stunning depth, while the lustrous 98 pt. 2010 SHL is "gorgeous" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth poised to continue evolving over two more decades, available in both 750 ml and magnums for cellaring. Both at outstanding pricing, the muscular 95 pt. 2012 SHL is "perfectly balanced, complex, super-rich and pure" according to the Wine Advocate and the 98 pt. 2014 SHL is summed up as "impressive long-term stuff!" by James Suckling, ready to enjoy now. Jeb Dunnuck calls the opulent 99 pt. 2015 SHL "brilliant stuff readers should snatch up" and Antonio Galloni of Vinous declares the harmoniously balanced 100 pt. 2016 SHL "flat out stunning." The bargain priced 97 pt. 2017 SHL is described by the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss as "elegant and powerful, dense and poised" that "will age impressively" while the powerful 99 pt. 2018 SHL is "incredibly polished and refined" according to James Suckling, declaring it "one of the finest Smith Haut Lafittes I have tasted." Describing Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte's vintages over the last decade at a retrospective tasting in April 2022, Decanter's Yohang Castaing sums them up as displaying "aromatic brilliance and suave, fleshy textures framed by tannins of remarkable finesse," an unbeatable combination mirroring First Growth quality. Whether choosing a favorite or two or mixing a case, all of these outstanding selections from Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte guarantee Bordeaux lovers and collectors years of evolution and enjoyment, now priced well below their pedigree and delivering top value. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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| 2018 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Readers looking for the next superstar in Bordeaux need to jump on the bandwagon of Les Carmes Haut-Brion..." - Jeb Dunnuck Jeb Dunnuck says it all - arguably the brightest star on the Left Bank in the past decade, Les Carmes Haut Brion has stepped fully into the limelight, with a critical track record that rivals not only that of its famous First Growth neighbor, but those of every other blue-chip Bordeaux estate on the right or left bank of the Gironde. On offer today, we have four modern classic vintages that show this estate in all its contemporary glory, with multiple 100-point reviews across the range, not to mention several more that flirt with perfection. We could commence with a litany of quotes and numbers for each rendition, but suffice to say, each rendition is one of the absolute sharpest collectible buys in modern Bordeaux, and any serious collector will want to fill the cellar with this astounding vertical. | ||
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| 2020 Larrivet Haut Brion Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Confirming my expectations, the 2022 Larrivet Haut-Brion is one of the best wines ever produced at this estate." - Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate As part of the general trend of overperforming Pessac estates in the past decade, Larrivet Haut-Brion's stock is steadily rising among the critical press and Bordeaux enthusiasts alike. Thanks to the guiding hand of famed enologist Michel Rolland, the style of the estate's wines has taken on an unprecedented level of class and polish culminating in the spectacular 2022 vintage. Following the overall character of the vintage, this triple 95-point, sub-$50 standout is "a dramatic, deeply resonant wine" with loads of structural stuffing to go the distance in the cellar. To further emphasize the estate's marvelous recent trajectory, we also have four back-vintage gems on offer that showcase how well Larrivet performs year in and year out. The 2016 is now in its prime drinking window where it will remain for years, while the 95-point 2019 shows "a rich, broad, mouth-filling, spicy, complex and full-bodied style that has loads to love" per Jeb Dunnuck. Keen-eyed collectors also won't sleep on the AG95 rendition from the "off-vintage" of 2017. "Bold, rich and intense, the 2017 exudes tremendous depth and intensity ... Readers should expect a wine of real energy and explosive power," declares Galloni. All in all, we love featuring Pessac, because the appellation is rife with stupendous collectible values, and while collectors often focus on building verticals of Bordeaux's most hallowed names, this line-up proves that you can get tremendous mileage out of doing the same with under-the-radar gems like Larrivet. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau LaTour Martillac Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Latour-Martillac remains one of the great value estates on the Left Bank, and this is especially true in outstanding vintages like the ones on offer today. With classic Graves terroir and expert winemaking, these wines consistently punch way above their weight class, as you can clearly see in the bevy of excellent press that accompanies each one. The highlights of the list are undoubtedly the 96-point 2019, which is "gorgeous, so bright and precise," delivering unreal bang for the buck at under $40, and the astounding 97-point 2022. Jeb Dunnuck dubs this powerhouse "a remarkably pure, medium to full-bodied Pessac-Léognan ... a brilliant 2022 that should be snatched up by readers." Of course, sharp-eyed collectors shouldn't over the 95-point 2018 or the "harmonious and well-defined" 2020. Last but certainly not least, the estate's white has always served as a reference-point for the category, made in part from Semillon vines over 140 years old. With 94-point potential according to several critics, the 2023 Blanc is "beautifully textured, rich, yet still racy white with tons to love," proving once again that Graves' whites are sometimes every bit as compelling as its reds. Whether you pick your favorite or go in for the whole vertical, you can rest assured you're getting some of the best quality-to-price character that the Left Bank has to offer. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Haut Bailly (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More We just can't get enough of the incredible 2019 Bordeaux! Described as "unquestionably a great vintage for Bordeaux" by Jeb Dunnuck, this absolutely stunning lineup of exceptional 2019s are all rated 97 pts and above with four scoring 100 pts., offered at value pricing that's hard to resist – pick a few favorites or mix a case or two and prepare to enjoy these age worthy beauties for years to come. "One heck of an impressive Margaux" according to Jeb Dunnuck, the elegant 97 pt. 2019 Chateau Giscours is mostly Cabernet with 35% Merlot, its well-integrated oak and ripe tannins poised to evolve for "two decades or so," - as Antonio Galloni of Vinous declares, "The 2019 is fabulous - that's all there is to it." Earning the #13 spot of the Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Cellar Selections 2022, the "perfect" 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Troplong Mondot is a dazzling St. Emilion blend of mostly Merlot, "without question one of the wines of the vintage" according to critic Galloni that Jane Anson of Inside Bordeaux calls "impressive" with chalky limestone tannins that "speaks of its soils." A Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend from Pessac Leognan, the muscular 99 pt. 2019 Chateau Haut Bailly is "just magic" according to the Wine Advocate's Lisa Perrotti-Brown, described as "unquestionably a big wine with a brilliant future" by critic Galloni. Always delivering one of the top values from Pauillac since its transformation by the brilliant Alfred Tesseron and his team, the powerful and alluring 99 pt. 2019 Chaeau Pontet Canet is "extremely well balanced and well-integrated" according to Decanter's Georgina Hindle, a full-bodied Left Bank blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon that Hindle calls "just such a great wine, everything you want" with firm, velvety tannins "promising a long life." Declaring "Oh, this is good," Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson calls St. Estephe's elegant 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Montrose "a masterclass in the flavors and aromatics that you expect in a great Medoc wine" and one that "makes you smile," summed up by James Suckling as "polished and very fine with lovely length." The massive 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Pichon-Longueville Baron offers the power of well-crafted Cabernet Sauvignon blended with a little Merlot, boasting a firm tannic grip that "lands you squarely in Pauillac" according to critic Anson that "will age for decades without breaking a sweat." Blending mostly Merlot with Cabernet Franc, St. Emilion's lush 100 pt. 2019 Chateau Canon 100 pt. is described as "one of the most refined, elegant Right Bank wines of the vintage" by the Wine Advocate's William Kelley, "with a deep core of fruit, beautifully refined tannins" and as noted by the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth, "a fine lacy thread of chalky minerality" that James Suckling declares "one for the cellar." Elegantly crafted from mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, Neal Martin of Vinous calls the enchanting 99 pt. 2019 Chateau Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande "an absolute show-stopper" with gorgeous aromatics reminiscent of Latour, "a powerful, multi-dimensional Pichon-Lalande," that he sums up in a single word, "Stunning." Described as "a brilliant wine as one of the stars of the show from Margaux" by Jeb Dunnuck, the Left Bank's classically-styled 99 pt. 2019 Chateau Palmer is "a very fine wine with a serious structure" that "will age for many years" according to the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss and called "a brilliant rendition of the contemporary Palmer style" by the Wine Advocate's William Kelley. A treasure trove of exceptional Left and Right bank blends promising decades of longevity, those Bordeaux fans and collectors who make room in the cellar for these top-rated 2019's will be rewarded again and again, these beautiful top-rated Bordeaux certain to provide enjoyment for years to come. | ||
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| 2010 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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12 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "One of the crown jewels of Bordeaux" Antonio Galloni, Vinous A range of top rated, pristinely cellared red and white blends from one of Bordeaux's most undervalued estates, these selections from Domaine de Chevalier are built for decades of enjoyment, some already ready to enjoy and all promising astute collectors some superb drinking ahead. Tucked away from view in southern Pessac-Leognan, the 120-hectare estate of Domaine de Chevalier is situated in a secluded parklike setting often described as "a secret garden," its 65-hectare biodynamically farmed vineyard surrounded by lush forest on gently rolling hills that promotes biodiversity. Situated south of the city of Bordeaux and Chateau Haut-Brion, Domaine de Chevalier's vineyards are arranged in a single square block on a mix of dark sand and fine gravel, planted mainly with Cabernet Sauvignon for the Grand Vin with a smaller 7-hectare parcel dedicated mostly to Sauvignon Blanc for the Blanc. Described as the white wine of the vintage by Jeb Dunnuck, the thrilling 98 pt. 2015 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc is composed of 75% Sauvignon Blanc and 25% Semillon aged for 18 months on the lees, yielding "a really gorgeous mouthfeel" according to the Wine Spectator's James Molesworth while Antonio Galloni declares the "impressive" 98 pt. 2020 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc "one of the world's great wines, hands down," both exceptionally long-lived white Bordeaux promising to age for decades. Moving to the reds, the 96 pt. 2010 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge "is bloody brilliant" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson, "at the beginning of its drinking window although nowhere near quitting" while the 96 pt. 2014 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge "offers full-bodied richness, a layered, silky texture, perfect balance and a great finish" according to Jeb Dunnuck. Earning a spot on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2019, the "stunning" 97 pt. 2016 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge boasts "beautiful complexity and texture" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson and Jeb Dunnuck calls the "classy, flawlessly balanced" 97 pt. 2017 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge "a gem that readers should snatch up," already drinking beautifully and age worthy for another three decades. James Suckling calls the 99 pt. 2018 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge the "greatest ever," a Cellar Selection conveying "plenty of longevity" according to the Wine Enthusiast's Roger Voss, and the Wine Advocate's William Kelley declares the "exquisitely elegant" 97 pt. 2019 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge "a magical wine in the making" describing it as "a masterclass in what contemporary Bordeaux can deliver and worth a special effort to seek out." Calling Domaine de Chevalier "one of the true elite yet under the radar properties in Bordeaux," Antonio Galloni of Vinous declares the work of superstar consultants Stephane Derenoncourt on the red and Denis Dubourdieu on the white, "shows in wines of pedigree, class and nuance," making it no secret that stocking the cellar with these unbeatably priced Domaine de Chevalier blends will reward Bordeaux lovers with seriously enjoyable drinking for years to come. | ||
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| 2022 De Fieuzal Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This 90-hecatre estate in Pessac-Léognan is undergoing a renaissance in the hands of winemaker Stephen Carrier and consultant Thomas Duclos ... In short, de Fieuzal is an estate to watch." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate The above quote from William Kelley truly captures the sentiment around this hidden gem estate in Pessac-Léognan. In a Left Bank appellation known for pushing quality and value to new levels, Château de Fieuzal is hitting all the marks lately, as evidenced by today's line-up of recent releases. The estate's red is a sub-$50 home-run hitter every year, and that kind of consistency is on display in the 2019, 2020, and 2022 vintages, the latter of which "shines for its balance and purity" per Jeb Dunnuck and was deserving of 96 points from Yohan Castaing ofWine Advocate. Not to be overlooked, the 2020 is also "a medium to full-bodied, seamless, layered wine " that has racked up impressive accolades from across the critical space for its "great mix of richness and elegance." Finally, like any great Pessac estate, de Fieuzal's white wines are some of the best in Bordeaux, and the two vintages on offer today each boast an impressive critical line that tops off at 95 points. If you're a savvy Bordeaux enthusiast who's been looking for your next great discovery, you've found one in Château de Fieuzal. | ||
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| 2022 Chateau LaTour Martillac Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Latour-Martillac remains one of the great value estates on the Left Bank, and this is especially true in outstanding vintages like the ones on offer today. With classic Graves terroir and expert winemaking, these wines consistently punch way above their weight class, as you can clearly see in the bevy of excellent press that accompanies each one. The highlights of the list are undoubtedly the 96-point 2019, which is "gorgeous, so bright and precise," delivering unreal bang for the buck at under $40, and the astounding 97-point 2022. Jeb Dunnuck dubs this powerhouse "a remarkably pure, medium to full-bodied Pessac-Léognan ... a brilliant 2022 that should be snatched up by readers." Of course, sharp-eyed collectors shouldn't over the 95-point 2018 or the "harmonious and well-defined" 2020. Last but certainly not least, the estate's white has always served as a reference-point for the category, made in part from Semillon vines over 140 years old. With 94-point potential according to several critics, the 2023 Blanc is "beautifully textured, rich, yet still racy white with tons to love," proving once again that Graves' whites are sometimes every bit as compelling as its reds. Whether you pick your favorite or go in for the whole vertical, you can rest assured you're getting some of the best quality-to-price character that the Left Bank has to offer. | ||
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| 2020 De Fieuzal Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This 90-hecatre estate in Pessac-Léognan is undergoing a renaissance in the hands of winemaker Stephen Carrier and consultant Thomas Duclos ... In short, de Fieuzal is an estate to watch." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate The above quote from William Kelley truly captures the sentiment around this hidden gem estate in Pessac-Léognan. In a Left Bank appellation known for pushing quality and value to new levels, Château de Fieuzal is hitting all the marks lately, as evidenced by today's line-up of recent releases. The estate's red is a sub-$50 home-run hitter every year, and that kind of consistency is on display in the 2019, 2020, and 2022 vintages, the latter of which "shines for its balance and purity" per Jeb Dunnuck and was deserving of 96 points from Yohan Castaing ofWine Advocate. Not to be overlooked, the 2020 is also "a medium to full-bodied, seamless, layered wine " that has racked up impressive accolades from across the critical space for its "great mix of richness and elegance." Finally, like any great Pessac estate, de Fieuzal's white wines are some of the best in Bordeaux, and the two vintages on offer today each boast an impressive critical line that tops off at 95 points. If you're a savvy Bordeaux enthusiast who's been looking for your next great discovery, you've found one in Château de Fieuzal. | ||
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| 2016 Chateau Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, whether it's the "complexity, finesse and longevity" of Chateau Lafite Rothschild according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson or the signature "explosive depth" and "breathtaking purity of flavor" of Chateau Haut-Brion according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, another terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. Spanning 112 hectares as the largest holding among the First Growths, the vineyards of Chateau Lafite Rothschild are located on rolling slopes of gravel up to ten meters deep in Pauillac, planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon with less than half of the total production making the final cut and aged for 18-20 months in new French oak barrels made at the estate's onsite cooperage.Exhibiting Lafite's "undeniable class and charm" according to Jeb Dunnuck, these top scoring selections range from the refined 100 pt. 2015 Chateau Lafite Rothschild that's just entering its realm of approachability, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as "a truly classic Lafite" that's "understated and lyrical" to the magnificent triple 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Lafite Rothschild promising to "hit its 100th birthday in fine form" according to Jeb Dunnuck, every vintage revealing intensely aromatic, concentrated dark fruit with textbook graphite notes and layered silky tannins promising decades of longevity. Set among the contemporary suburbs of the city of Bordeaux, Chateau Haut-Brion's vineyards for the red Grand Vin span 50 hectares in Pessac-Leognan, planted almost evenly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with small parcels of Cab Franc and Petit Verdot in a complex terroir ranging from limestone to sand to 18-meter-deep gravels interspersed with deep clay, the Grand Vin aged in mostly new French oak barrels for 22 months. With every vintage boasting its legendary ability to age, these thrilling selections range from the plush 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Haut-Brion offering the estate's signature ripe, opulent fruit elegantly balancing massive tannins to the 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Haut-Brion declared "a legend in the making" by Jeb Dunnuck and "ready to shine as the centerpiece of your collection for the next 40+ years" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson. A treasure trove of exceptional First Growths that will make it hard to choose, these top scoring blends from Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Haut-Brion range fromsome with over a decade of cellaring to more recent vintages requiring patient cellaring, all promising a thrilling evolution for decades to come and delivered in perfect provenance at best on the market pricing. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Readers looking for the next superstar in Bordeaux need to jump on the bandwagon of Les Carmes Haut-Brion..." - Jeb Dunnuck Jeb Dunnuck says it all - arguably the brightest star on the Left Bank in the past decade, Les Carmes Haut Brion has stepped fully into the limelight, with a critical track record that rivals not only that of its famous First Growth neighbor, but those of every other blue-chip Bordeaux estate on the right or left bank of the Gironde. On offer today, we have four modern classic vintages that show this estate in all its contemporary glory, with multiple 100-point reviews across the range, not to mention several more that flirt with perfection. We could commence with a litany of quotes and numbers for each rendition, but suffice to say, each rendition is one of the absolute sharpest collectible buys in modern Bordeaux, and any serious collector will want to fill the cellar with this astounding vertical. | ||
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| 2016 De Fieuzal Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This 90-hecatre estate in Pessac-Léognan is undergoing a renaissance in the hands of winemaker Stephen Carrier and consultant Thomas Duclos ... In short, de Fieuzal is an estate to watch." - William Kelley, Wine Advocate The above quote from William Kelley truly captures the sentiment around this hidden gem estate in Pessac-Léognan. In a Left Bank appellation known for pushing quality and value to new levels, Château de Fieuzal is hitting all the marks lately, as evidenced by today's line-up of recent releases. The estate's red is a sub-$50 home-run hitter every year, and that kind of consistency is on display in the 2019, 2020, and 2022 vintages, the latter of which "shines for its balance and purity" per Jeb Dunnuck and was deserving of 96 points from Yohan Castaing ofWine Advocate. Not to be overlooked, the 2020 is also "a medium to full-bodied, seamless, layered wine " that has racked up impressive accolades from across the critical space for its "great mix of richness and elegance." Finally, like any great Pessac estate, de Fieuzal's white wines are some of the best in Bordeaux, and the two vintages on offer today each boast an impressive critical line that tops off at 95 points. If you're a savvy Bordeaux enthusiast who's been looking for your next great discovery, you've found one in Château de Fieuzal. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau Ferran Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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| 2023 Couhins Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Sauvignon Blanc from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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| 2023 Chateau LaTour Martillac Blanc (750ml) | ||
| Semillon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Latour-Martillac remains one of the great value estates on the Left Bank, and this is especially true in outstanding vintages like the ones on offer today. With classic Graves terroir and expert winemaking, these wines consistently punch way above their weight class, as you can clearly see in the bevy of excellent press that accompanies each one. The highlights of the list are undoubtedly the 96-point 2019, which is "gorgeous, so bright and precise," delivering unreal bang for the buck at under $40, and the astounding 97-point 2022. Jeb Dunnuck dubs this powerhouse "a remarkably pure, medium to full-bodied Pessac-Léognan ... a brilliant 2022 that should be snatched up by readers." Of course, sharp-eyed collectors shouldn't over the 95-point 2018 or the "harmonious and well-defined" 2020. Last but certainly not least, the estate's white has always served as a reference-point for the category, made in part from Semillon vines over 140 years old. With 94-point potential according to several critics, the 2023 Blanc is "beautifully textured, rich, yet still racy white with tons to love," proving once again that Graves' whites are sometimes every bit as compelling as its reds. Whether you pick your favorite or go in for the whole vertical, you can rest assured you're getting some of the best quality-to-price character that the Left Bank has to offer. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau LaTour Martillac Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Latour-Martillac remains one of the great value estates on the Left Bank, and this is especially true in outstanding vintages like the ones on offer today. With classic Graves terroir and expert winemaking, these wines consistently punch way above their weight class, as you can clearly see in the bevy of excellent press that accompanies each one. The highlights of the list are undoubtedly the 96-point 2019, which is "gorgeous, so bright and precise," delivering unreal bang for the buck at under $40, and the astounding 97-point 2022. Jeb Dunnuck dubs this powerhouse "a remarkably pure, medium to full-bodied Pessac-Léognan ... a brilliant 2022 that should be snatched up by readers." Of course, sharp-eyed collectors shouldn't over the 95-point 2018 or the "harmonious and well-defined" 2020. Last but certainly not least, the estate's white has always served as a reference-point for the category, made in part from Semillon vines over 140 years old. With 94-point potential according to several critics, the 2023 Blanc is "beautifully textured, rich, yet still racy white with tons to love," proving once again that Graves' whites are sometimes every bit as compelling as its reds. Whether you pick your favorite or go in for the whole vertical, you can rest assured you're getting some of the best quality-to-price character that the Left Bank has to offer. | ||
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| 2016 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Franc from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Readers looking for the next superstar in Bordeaux need to jump on the bandwagon of Les Carmes Haut-Brion..." - Jeb Dunnuck Jeb Dunnuck says it all - arguably the brightest star on the Left Bank in the past decade, Les Carmes Haut Brion has stepped fully into the limelight, with a critical track record that rivals not only that of its famous First Growth neighbor, but those of every other blue-chip Bordeaux estate on the right or left bank of the Gironde. On offer today, we have four modern classic vintages that show this estate in all its contemporary glory, with multiple 100-point reviews across the range, not to mention several more that flirt with perfection. We could commence with a litany of quotes and numbers for each rendition, but suffice to say, each rendition is one of the absolute sharpest collectible buys in modern Bordeaux, and any serious collector will want to fill the cellar with this astounding vertical. | ||
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| 2009 Chateau Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, whether it's the "complexity, finesse and longevity" of Chateau Lafite Rothschild according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson or the signature "explosive depth" and "breathtaking purity of flavor" of Chateau Haut-Brion according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, another terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. Spanning 112 hectares as the largest holding among the First Growths, the vineyards of Chateau Lafite Rothschild are located on rolling slopes of gravel up to ten meters deep in Pauillac, planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon with less than half of the total production making the final cut and aged for 18-20 months in new French oak barrels made at the estate's onsite cooperage.Exhibiting Lafite's "undeniable class and charm" according to Jeb Dunnuck, these top scoring selections range from the refined 100 pt. 2015 Chateau Lafite Rothschild that's just entering its realm of approachability, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as "a truly classic Lafite" that's "understated and lyrical" to the magnificent triple 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Lafite Rothschild promising to "hit its 100th birthday in fine form" according to Jeb Dunnuck, every vintage revealing intensely aromatic, concentrated dark fruit with textbook graphite notes and layered silky tannins promising decades of longevity. Set among the contemporary suburbs of the city of Bordeaux, Chateau Haut-Brion's vineyards for the red Grand Vin span 50 hectares in Pessac-Leognan, planted almost evenly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with small parcels of Cab Franc and Petit Verdot in a complex terroir ranging from limestone to sand to 18-meter-deep gravels interspersed with deep clay, the Grand Vin aged in mostly new French oak barrels for 22 months. With every vintage boasting its legendary ability to age, these thrilling selections range from the plush 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Haut-Brion offering the estate's signature ripe, opulent fruit elegantly balancing massive tannins to the 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Haut-Brion declared "a legend in the making" by Jeb Dunnuck and "ready to shine as the centerpiece of your collection for the next 40+ years" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson. A treasure trove of exceptional First Growths that will make it hard to choose, these top scoring blends from Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Haut-Brion range fromsome with over a decade of cellaring to more recent vintages requiring patient cellaring, all promising a thrilling evolution for decades to come and delivered in perfect provenance at best on the market pricing. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, whether it's the "complexity, finesse and longevity" of Chateau Lafite Rothschild according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson or the signature "explosive depth" and "breathtaking purity of flavor" of Chateau Haut-Brion according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, another terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. Spanning 112 hectares as the largest holding among the First Growths, the vineyards of Chateau Lafite Rothschild are located on rolling slopes of gravel up to ten meters deep in Pauillac, planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon with less than half of the total production making the final cut and aged for 18-20 months in new French oak barrels made at the estate's onsite cooperage.Exhibiting Lafite's "undeniable class and charm" according to Jeb Dunnuck, these top scoring selections range from the refined 100 pt. 2015 Chateau Lafite Rothschild that's just entering its realm of approachability, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as "a truly classic Lafite" that's "understated and lyrical" to the magnificent triple 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Lafite Rothschild promising to "hit its 100th birthday in fine form" according to Jeb Dunnuck, every vintage revealing intensely aromatic, concentrated dark fruit with textbook graphite notes and layered silky tannins promising decades of longevity. Set among the contemporary suburbs of the city of Bordeaux, Chateau Haut-Brion's vineyards for the red Grand Vin span 50 hectares in Pessac-Leognan, planted almost evenly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with small parcels of Cab Franc and Petit Verdot in a complex terroir ranging from limestone to sand to 18-meter-deep gravels interspersed with deep clay, the Grand Vin aged in mostly new French oak barrels for 22 months. With every vintage boasting its legendary ability to age, these thrilling selections range from the plush 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Haut-Brion offering the estate's signature ripe, opulent fruit elegantly balancing massive tannins to the 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Haut-Brion declared "a legend in the making" by Jeb Dunnuck and "ready to shine as the centerpiece of your collection for the next 40+ years" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson. A treasure trove of exceptional First Growths that will make it hard to choose, these top scoring blends from Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Haut-Brion range fromsome with over a decade of cellaring to more recent vintages requiring patient cellaring, all promising a thrilling evolution for decades to come and delivered in perfect provenance at best on the market pricing. | ||
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| 2022 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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| 2019 Chateau Malartic-Lagraviere Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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12 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Acknowledging that 2019 is already a heralded vintage, the salient question is whether it represents the summit of the 2018, 2019 and 2020 triumvirate. 'Yes' is the answer. I have always felt that is the case." - Neal Martin, Vinous Of course, you may or may not agree with Martin in terms of 2019 place in the "trifecta," but it's undeniable that is a truly spectacular Bordeaux vintage that has more than lived up to its day-one hype since the wine's have hit the market, hit collector's cellars, and found their way into the glasses of impatient enthusiasts. Best of all, pricing has always been highly favorable compared to 2018 and 2020 (to say nothing of 2022), so the 2019s have also been some of the sharpest collectible buys on the market from the get-go and remain so today. We've just landed a must-see treasure trove from this heralded campaign at ... you guessed it ... razor-sharp pricing cross the board, with superb performers in every classification and price tier. | ||
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| 2020 Chateau Lespault-Martillac Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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| 2010 Chateau Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More Representing the upper echelon in the Bordeaux hierarchy, these top scoring vintages from two iconic First Growth estates are guaranteed not to disappoint, whether it's the "complexity, finesse and longevity" of Chateau Lafite Rothschild according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson or the signature "explosive depth" and "breathtaking purity of flavor" of Chateau Haut-Brion according to Vinous critic Antonio Galloni, another terrific opportunity to fill in the cellar with 100 pt. gems or treat yourself to the one of a kind pleasures that only First Growth Bordeaux can deliver in every vintage at best on the market pricing. Spanning 112 hectares as the largest holding among the First Growths, the vineyards of Chateau Lafite Rothschild are located on rolling slopes of gravel up to ten meters deep in Pauillac, planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon with less than half of the total production making the final cut and aged for 18-20 months in new French oak barrels made at the estate's onsite cooperage.Exhibiting Lafite's "undeniable class and charm" according to Jeb Dunnuck, these top scoring selections range from the refined 100 pt. 2015 Chateau Lafite Rothschild that's just entering its realm of approachability, described by Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson as "a truly classic Lafite" that's "understated and lyrical" to the magnificent triple 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Lafite Rothschild promising to "hit its 100th birthday in fine form" according to Jeb Dunnuck, every vintage revealing intensely aromatic, concentrated dark fruit with textbook graphite notes and layered silky tannins promising decades of longevity. Set among the contemporary suburbs of the city of Bordeaux, Chateau Haut-Brion's vineyards for the red Grand Vin span 50 hectares in Pessac-Leognan, planted almost evenly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with small parcels of Cab Franc and Petit Verdot in a complex terroir ranging from limestone to sand to 18-meter-deep gravels interspersed with deep clay, the Grand Vin aged in mostly new French oak barrels for 22 months. With every vintage boasting its legendary ability to age, these thrilling selections range from the plush 100 pt. 2009 Chateau Haut-Brion offering the estate's signature ripe, opulent fruit elegantly balancing massive tannins to the 100 pt. 2020 Chateau Haut-Brion declared "a legend in the making" by Jeb Dunnuck and "ready to shine as the centerpiece of your collection for the next 40+ years" according to Inside Bordeaux's Jane Anson. A treasure trove of exceptional First Growths that will make it hard to choose, these top scoring blends from Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Haut-Brion range fromsome with over a decade of cellaring to more recent vintages requiring patient cellaring, all promising a thrilling evolution for decades to come and delivered in perfect provenance at best on the market pricing. | ||
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| 2019 Larrivet Haut Brion Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Merlot from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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6 B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "Acknowledging that 2019 is already a heralded vintage, the salient question is whether it represents the summit of the 2018, 2019 and 2020 triumvirate. 'Yes' is the answer. I have always felt that is the case." - Neal Martin, Vinous Of course, you may or may not agree with Martin in terms of 2019 place in the "trifecta," but it's undeniable that is a truly spectacular Bordeaux vintage that has more than lived up to its day-one hype since the wine's have hit the market, hit collector's cellars, and found their way into the glasses of impatient enthusiasts. Best of all, pricing has always been highly favorable compared to 2018 and 2020 (to say nothing of 2022), so the 2019s have also been some of the sharpest collectible buys on the market from the get-go and remain so today. We've just landed a must-see treasure trove from this heralded campaign at ... you guessed it ... razor-sharp pricing cross the board, with superb performers in every classification and price tier. | ||
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| 2016 Chateau Malartic-Lagraviere Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
6 | ||
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| 2022 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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B-21 Top Recommendation
Read More "This is an extraordinary vintage that will go down in record books as one of the all-time greats." - Jeb Dunnuck When Bordeaux's 2022 vintage premiered three years ago, there was some uncertainty as to how the wines would play out from such a hot, dry growing season, one which surely promised wines of massive power, ripeness, and weight. Would it be too much of a good thing? As it appeared then, and as it has turned out now that the wines are releasing to market, it's an extraordinary campaign among the best of the century. As Dunnuck observes, "Now that the wines are in bottles, it’s clear they have fully lived up to the early hype—and not just at the high end. The 2022s are deep, layered, and concentrated while staying beautifully balanced, light on their feet, and elegant." Today's selection presents an incredible treasure trove that showcases the vintage's greatest features at every price in the spectrum, leaving no doubt as to how good 2022 Bordeaux really is. | ||
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| 2021 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion (750ml) | ||
| Cabernet Sauvignon from Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France | ||
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