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B-21 Top Recommendation
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One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a Bordeaux fan or collector is returning again and again to a lauded vintage to see how the wines are evolving. Of course, it's all the more enjoyable as Bordeaux offers you countless opportunities to do so without breaking the bank.
Where the book-end vintages of the acclaimed "trifecta" of 2018, 2019, and 2020 are built on power and longevity, the middle vintage has always stood out for its approachability and refinement, which is clearly apparent in these best-selling, fan-favorite value performers on offer today. Leading off, we have "a really fabulous Cantemerle that surely represents outstanding value" per Neal Martin, who notes "You have no excuse not to have this in your cellar." The 93-point Chasse-Spleen is another hidden gem from Moulis-en-Médoc's most well-known estate, while "the purity and finesse are really something" on the 2019 Pedesclaux Pauillac, according to Jeb Dunnuck. With the pedigree of a multiple 100-point grand vin behind it, the 2019 La Dame de Montrose is once again one of the great second-wine buys of the vintage, "a serious Dame de Montrose, with clear ageing potential," according to Jane Anson.
Best of all, each of these wines is showing out right now and starting to offer prime drinking for any Bordeaux lover who can't resist pulling a cork. And at these prices, you don't have to think twice about it! |
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The 2019 Rol Valentin showed extremely well from barrel. In bottle, it has retained a gorgeous, pure bouquet of blackberry, spicebox, violet and incense aromas, intense but not overpowering, and the oak neatly integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with saturated tannins, yet there is backbone and grip. Focused and velvety-smooth, this is an utterly delicious Rol Valentin, one of the finest I have tasted in recent years.
94 points, Neal Martin, Vinous (Feb 2022)
This estate continues to make outstanding wines, and their 2019 Château Rol Valentin sports a deep ruby/plum color to go with beautiful notes of red plums, darker cherries, Asian spices, graphite, and dried herbs. Medium-bodied on the palate, it's beautifully balanced, has good mid-palate density, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Beautifully done, it should have 15+ years of prime drinking.
92 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Apr 2022)
This has aromas of blackberries, toasted bark, pine cones and spice box. It’s medium-bodied with firm, tight tannins. Some citrus peel on the structured and chewy finish. Better after 2024.
92 points, James Suckling (Jan 2022)
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