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B-21 Top Recommendation Read More
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-pointgrand vinbehind 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. Finally, "a terrific effort from an estate that deserves to be much better known," the 2019 Haut-Bages-Liberal Pauillac offers more brilliant value in an appellation known for its regal names (and prices).
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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A gorgeous wine, the 2019 Château Pédesclaux shines for its pure, elegant, yet concentrated style, and it's certainly one of the finest vintages from this address. Cassis, black cherries, lead pencil, and violet notes all emerge on the nose, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a seamless, elegant mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. The purity and finesse are truly something here, and while it already offers pleasure, it deserves 4-5 years of bottle age and will evolve for 20+ years.
94+ points, Jeb Dunnuck (Apr 2022)
This is really floral and beautiful with lavender, lilac and blackcurrant aromas that follow through to a medium to full body with firm, creamy tannins and a flavorful finish. It’s very racy and refined with structure. Linear. 72% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot, 6% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot. Best after 2024.
94 points, James Suckling (Feb 2022)
The 2019 Pédesclaux is quirky and full of character. It offers a beguiling mix of super-ripe dark fruit and savory Cabernet coupled with accents that offer a striking counterpoint. Black cherry, chocolate, new leather, spice, tobacco, incense and scorched earth lead into the substantial finish. There's more raciness than finesse in this Pauillac, but it all works well.
93 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Feb 2022)