{"title":"July 9: First Growth DInner","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"chateau-haut-brion-cru-classe-de-graves-pessac-leognan-bordeaux-france-2000","title":"Château Haut-Brion, Grand Cru Classé de Graves, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France, 2000","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eVault Wine: This wine is stored in our vault.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChateau Haut-Brion is the oldest and by far the smallest of the \"Premiers Grands Crus\" vineyards of the Gironde 1855 classification. Chateau Haut-Brion is one of the few remaining family-owned domains of the Bordeaux region with a history going back to the 16th century. It has been owned by the American Dillon family since 1935.Thanks to its long history as one of Bordeaux's most prestigious wines, the estate has left its mark on the region for centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vineyard covers an area of 51 hectares (about 126 acres). Slightly more than 48 hectares are planted with red grape varieties. The terrain at Haut-Brion, formed of two large mounds of a type of gravel known as Gunzian because it was deposited during the earliest geologic stage of the Pleistocene epoch, rises between 40 and 50 feet above the beds of the neighboring streams. This gravel consists of small stones, including various kinds of quartz, and it is these precious gems that help to give Chateau Haut-Brion's wines their distinctive character. This expansive elevated reach of gravelly terrain, bounded at the north by the Le Peugue stream and at the south by the Le Serpent stream, has been called Haut -Brion at least as far back as the early years of the fifteenth century, as evidenced by ancient maps and deeds dating from this period. The sub-soil consists of a mixture of clay and sand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e51% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBeautiful color, very deep with a mixing of the Haut-Brion ruby and its purple-violet shade of youth. Swishing the wine around in the glass gives a notion of its density. This complexity is followed up in the aromas that suddenly burst forth all at once: a woody hint of fine polished oak, mulberry jam, cherry pits, a touch of blackcurrant, and the bittersweet of mango. One discovers this complexness again with even more intensity in the mouth. The specific notes oft his vintage: the finesse of mocha, the toasted trace of praline all join with the above, melding together with tannins of great complexity and softness. The finish is never ending... exceptional bottle. To be drunk today, tomorrow and surely even 100 years from now.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIs this as good as the 1989? Certainly it is lush and powerful, lingering and expanding in the mouth with sweet tobacco and cigar box notes, along with still young blackcurrant and blackberry fruits, all given lift by the trademark Haut-Brion aromatics. It beds in and shakes off early reticence after a good hour in the glass, suggesting that this is only just leaving its primary phase and has many decades left ahead of it. A great wine that highlights the success of Haut-Brion under the partnership of estate director Jean-Bernard Delmas, father of current director Jean-Philippe Delmas, and owner Joan Dillon the Duchess of Mouchy (president of the company until 2008 before handing over to her son Prince Robert of Luxembourg). A supremely confident wine that is hard to fault in its depth of expression.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIts bigger sister, the 2000 Haut-Brion (a blend of 51% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc) showed incredibly at the tasting, and for me is one of the three or four most prodigious wines of the vintage. A compelling nose of roasted herbs, scorched earth, sweet blueberries, plums, black currants, and a hint of graphite is followed by a deep, layered, sumptuously textured, full-bodied Haut-Brion, but one with extraordinary complexity. This wine seems more evolved and approachable than I had expected it to be at age 10. My window of maturity seven years ago was 2012-2040, but I would change that to 2010-2050.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFrom a year in Bordeaux that started out with poor weather yet finished under ideal conditions, the 2000 Haut Brion is a gorgeous, incredibly classic wine from this estate that everything you could want. Blackcurrants, plums, scorched earth, tobacco and lots of mineral and earthy characteristic emerge from this gorgeous, still youthful, elegant, yet powerful 2000. The blend is 51% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Cabernet Franc, and while certainly beautiful today, it has another two to three decades of longevity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Enthusiast \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor an Haut-Brion, this is huge. Every characteristic suggests power, from the dark color, through the knock-out perfumes, full of dark, brooding fruits. The flavors are black, intense and ripe. It is a delicious wine, surprisingly ready to drink. And yes, just at the end, there is a small hint of the delicacy and elegance that is true Haut-Brion.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis 2000 starts with aromas of citrus fruit, currants, flowers, and fresh mushrooms. The palates leads off full and rich, with round tannins and a dusty texture. Plenty of fruit and sliced mushrooms on the palate, but it is still tight.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBeautiful tobacco, berry, cedar and plum aromas in this one. Full-bodied, yet very fine and reserved, with silky tannins and a medium finish. I still prefer the 1998, but this is very, very fine indeed. An Haut-Brion with lots of finesse.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcluded from additional \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003ediscounting. \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39600610246698,"sku":"","price":1329.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Chateau-Haut-Brion-Grand-Cru-Classe-de-Graves-Pessac-Leognan-Bordeaux-France-2000.jpg?v=1757425224"},{"product_id":"chateau-margaux-grand-cru-classe-bordeaux-france-2000","title":"Château Margaux, Premier Grand Cru Classé, Bordeaux, France, 2000","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eVault Wine: This wine is stored in our vault.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChateau Margaux, a Premier Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux, is one of the most famous wines in the world. Care has been lavished on the property by a line of owners with an abiding concern for the reputation of the estate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more than five hundred years, season after season, generations of vineyard-workers, grape harvesters, cellar-workers, coopers and many other craftsmen have all played a part in making Chateau Margaux what it is today: a wine with an incomparable personality, reflected in the elegant Palladian building which adorns its label. In 1977, the estate was purchased by the late André Mentzelopoulos, and it is now run by his daughter, Corinne Mentzelopoulos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMargaux, Bordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe were unaware at that time that we were harvesting one of the greatest vintages of the late 20th century. The grapes had rarely, perhaps never, been as concentrated, particularly the Cabernets. In certain cases we surpassed the already historic levels of the 1986 and 1995 vintages, with an elegance and softness on the palate, reminiscent also of the 1990 and 1996 vintages. It seemed in fact that 2000 was setting a new benchmark in quality, never before attained, at least in terms of style. Throughout the barrel ageing time, these first impressions were gradually confirmed. The wine has now acquired a slightly tighter texture and at the same time keeps such a soft and especially long finish that it seems to go on forever… The bottling took place in November 2002, after over 2 years of barrel ageing. Such a long ageing is unusual but not as rare as one might think: most of the greatest vintages are aged for that length of time. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAbsolutely compelling in two tastings of this vintage, the 2000 Margaux is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. The extraordinary seductiveness, complex aromatics, and purity it exhibits lead me to believe it has reached its window of full maturity. Medium-bodied, with layers of concentration, stunning blue, red, and black fruits intermixed with spring flowers, a subtle dosage of new oak, and a distinctive personality that is elegant while at the same time powerful and substantial, this is a multi-dimensional wine that was extremely approachable and drinkable in both tastings I had of it. The color remains a healthy, even opaque bluish\/purple, but there is no reason to hesitate to drink it. It should evolve for another 30-40 years, so there is no hurry either.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is like smelling an amazing bouquet of flowers, deep and thought provoking. Notes of raspberries, and strawberries round out the refined nose. Full and silky. More than just silk really, it is almost transparent. Incredibly mellow, yet enticing. It is difficult to find the perfect word. It is as ethereal as Paul Pontieller, managing director of Chateaux Margaux says. The impeccable balance makes this perfect to drink now, but it will get even better with more time. This is already ageless.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eViolet and iris aromatics curling out of the glass, starting to reach their full expression at 20 years old. Beautifully finessed and elegant, with hints of black truffle, cloves and rich blackberry fruits, this is a vintage that showcases the best of Margaux. It took its time to reach this point but it has been worth the wait, and the wine just gets better and better over a few hours in the glass. Highlights the success of the partnership between owner Corinne Mentzelopoulos and director Paul Pontantallier, with this château delivering some of the most memorable wines of the turn of the century years in Bordeaux.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eTasted from magnum, the 2000 Château Margaux is a prodigious, flawless wine that shows the elegance and seductive hallmark of the estate paired with incredible density, depth, and richness. Its still-ruby\/purple color is followed by sensational notes of crème de cassis, spring flowers, lead pencil, and sandalwood that develop beautifully with time in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, opulent, and seamless, with a multi-dimensional, layered texture, it has a massive mid-palate, sweet tannins, and a finish that won’t quit. It’s drinking brilliantly today, and there’s certainly no need to delay gratification, but it’s going to continue evolving for another 3-4 decades. Bordeaux (or red wine, for that matter) doesn’t get any better. The 2000 is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot brought up new barrels.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Wine Spectator \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis has jaw-dropping notes of Lapsang souchong tea, warmed fig, black currant confiture and anise-infused plum sauce, both aromatically and on the palate. Coating, lush and alluring, yet beautifully defined and elegant at the same time. This flows like a perfectly fitted full-length dress, grabbing your attention over and over. One of the few vintages here that saw a full two years in barrel, along with '05, '95 and '86\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39600615981098,"sku":"","price":1749.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Chateau-Margaux-Premier-Grand-Cru-Classe-Bordeaux-France-2000.jpg?v=1757425238"},{"product_id":"chateau-suduiraut-lions-de-suduiraut-sauternes-bordeaux-france-2015-375ml","title":"Château Suduiraut, Lions de Suduiraut, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France, 2015 (375mL)","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/CHATEAU-SUDUIRAUT.png?v=1641416117\" width=\"314\" height=\"199\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBrand Overview\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChâteau Suduiraut is acknowledged to be one of the finest Sauternes. The team at the Suduiraut estate, passionate about their work are united in the pursuit of their goal : to extract from this great vineyard one of the world's finest wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe history of Château Suduiraut, in Sauternes, goes back to centuries. After the total destruction of the property by the Duke d’Epernon in the 1600’s, Count Blaise de Suduiraut replanted the vineyard and restored the estate to its former glory. On 18 April 1855 the estate was classed as a Premier Cru during the official wine classification programme in the Gironde winegrowing area. AXA Millésimes acquired Suduiraut in 1992 with the aim of preserving and perpetuating the estate's remarkable tradition of vineyard management and winemaking. Inspired by the great Suduiraut wines of the past, the new management has enabled this great vineyard to fulfill its full potential in recent years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChristian Seely\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e92% Sémillon, 8% Sauvignon Blanc\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLions de Suduiraut is an ideal introduction to Sauternes. This wine has been specifically designed to reveal the pleasures of taste provided by Sauternes wines. With a blending style that is absolutely unique, this wine is more velvety, fresh and mineral than other wines in the range. With a more creative profile, modern and easily approachable, it is an ideal complement to any social or festive event: for happy hours, light meals, or as an aperitif...\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLions de Suduiraut 2015 has a golden colour with some green glints. First, the intense nose reveals notes of candied fruits, in particular apricot and melon, with hints of smokiness and minerals. Then, notes of vanilla and passion fruit emerge. The attack is round and fresh. Apricot and melon return on the palate with a very soft, non-sugary sensation, like an acid drop. The finish is smooth with notes of candied apricot. The 2015 vintage brings a little more generosity to the lively character and fruit of this cuvée. A delicacy to be enjoyed as from this autumn.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - CT\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e 375ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/download_4.png?v=1641416234\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Merchant of Wine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39672456839210,"sku":"","price":29.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Suduiraut_Lions_de_Suduiraut_Sauternes_Bordeaux_France_2015_375mL.jpg?v=1762528299"},{"product_id":"chateau-doisy-daene-barsac-bordeaux-france-2018-375ml","title":"Chateau Doisy-Daene, Barsac, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France, 2018 (375mL)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChateau Doisy Daene, Second's Cru Classe in 1855, located in Barsac in the Sauternes appellation, has been in the Dubourdieu family since 1924. For over eighty years three generations of vine growers have exercised talents to produce great sweet white wines : Georges (1924-1948), Pierre (1949-1999) and Denis since 2000.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFabrice and Jean Jacques\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSémillon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDoisy Daëne wine has a style of its own that privileges a bursting fruit concentrated by the \"noble rot\", strength, balance and subtlety of the flavors. The Doisy-Daëne style is all at once the expression of a great calcareous soil and a truly aesthetic family tradition, the one of distinguished white wines, of crystal-like purity, combining power and freshness, in an infinite youth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSilky texture, notable gunsmoke and cigar box that deepens the complexity and sense of interest, set alongside the citrus fruits, lime blossom and soft spices. Has interest and sets itself apart. 30% new oak. Drinking Window 2021 - 2044\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBeautiful aromas of salted toffee, dried apple and pear follow through to a full body with pretty sweetness and brightness. Tangy and vivid. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Enthusiast \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStars of all styles of white wine in Bordeaux, the Dubourdieu family has produced a delicate, perfumed white. Apricot compote is layered with honey and acidity, giving the wine a fine lift. Textured and still young, the wine will be ready from 2025.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Spectator \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eDirect, featuring glazed peach and pear flavors draped with a heather honey note. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e 375ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merchant of Wine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39973017354282,"sku":"","price":39.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Chateau-Doisy-Daene-Barsac-Bordeaux-France-2018.jpg?v=1762528758"},{"product_id":"chateau-dyquem-sauternes-bordeaux-france-2010-375ml","title":"Château d'Yquem, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France, 2010 (375mL)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn 1993, Chateau d'Yquem celebrated 400 years of ownership by the same family. In 1593, the Sauvage family bought this estate which came into the Lur Saluces patrimony when Francoise Joséphine de Sauvage married Count Louis Amédée de Lur Saluces in 1785. Marquis Bertrand de Lur Saluces was one of the 20th century's most important personalities in the world of wine. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCount Alexandre de Lur Saluces has followed in his Uncle Betrand's footsteps since 1968. Highly motivated to perfect this prestigious product while respecting tradition, he is determined to offer maximum quality. All those who love this inimitable wine, from Jefferson to Pamela Harriman, former U.S. Ambassador, by way of great Duke Constantine, have approved this philosophy from vintage to vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYquem is the result of painstaking efforts by everyone who works on the estate. However, nature is the major factor in making the most of the rare soil of Yquem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSémillon and Sauvignon Blanc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDiscovering Chateau d'Yquem starts with the bouquet. Although not always very outgoing in young vintages, it is marked by fruit (apricot, mandarin, and occasionally tropical fruit) and oak (vanilla and toast aromas). Older vintages, on the other hand, have an extradordinarily complex fragrance as soon as the bottle is opened.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bouquet is amazingly subtle, with hints of dried fruit (dried apricot, prune, stewed fruit, and marmalade), spice (cinnamon, saffron, and liquorice), and even flowers (linden blosson, etc).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first impression of Chateau d'Yquem on the palate is always silky, and often sumptuous. It then fills out, \"coating the palate\". This wine has a strong, but never overbearing character, with great elegance and poise. It always maintains a balance between sugar and acidity (sweetness and freshness).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine Enthusiast \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarrel Sample. Stunningly rich in character, a wine with great power to go with its acidity and sweetness. It is dense, powerful and concentrated powered by honey and by spice from the wood. The finish has dried apricots, very aromatic.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e98 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePale to medium lemon-gold color, the 2010 d'Yquem has retreated into its shell at this youthful stage, offering spritely suggestions of lemon curd, lime cordial and green mango with wafts of honeysuckle, spice cake, sea spray and beeswax plus a hint of gingerbread. The palate really comes through with super intense, tightly wound citrus, savory and mineral layers carried by a laser-precise backbone of freshness, finishing with crazy persistence that lingers a full three minutes and then some. This is going to be a very exotic, opulent Yquem!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eA pure, racy, floral style, with bright white peach, heather and honeysuckle notes driving along. The core of fresh orchard fruit is unctuous, the finish long and lacy, with marvelous cut and finesse. This shows the balance and elegance of a cooler year with a longer harvest period.—Non-blind Yquem vertical (July 2014). Best from 2015 through 2045. 8,334 cases made. (Collectible)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe purity of Botrytis in this wine is so impressive with dried fruits such apple and mango. And then spicy character. Full body and very sweet but it is incredibly fresh and lively. Such class and elegance. Perfectly manicured wine. Everything in the right place. This shows a delicacy and intensity that are spellbinding. Drink in 2018.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2010 Yquem has an attractive bouquet with marmalade, caramelized pear, orange pith and light puff pastry notes. It just needs a little more delineation. The palate is very well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, lightly spiced and impressive focus. Like the aromatics, I would have just liked a little more precision on the finish. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44978538643761,"sku":"","price":350.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Chateau-d_Yquem-Sauternes-Bordeaux-France-2010.jpg?v=1762533354"},{"product_id":"domaine-de-chevalier-blanc-bordeaux-france-2016","title":"Domaine de Chevalier, Blanc, Bordeaux, France, 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDomaine de Chevalier is located in a clearing in the middle of a forest that protects the vines from extremes of temprature. In fact Chevalier is a sort of secret garden, far from the limelight. This is something of a paradox for such an excellent wine, among the greatest in Bordeaux. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnly a great terroir can produce a great wine... I often start out with these words when speaking about Domaine de Chevalier. They convey our fundamental philosophy, not only with regard to viticulture, but also the spirit that pervades the estate and the men and women who work here. They improve their already considerable skills year after year on behalf of that which is most essential to a fine wine; in my opinion balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e75% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Semillon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe dry white wine harvest began on 12\/09 with Sauvignon Blanc and finished with Sémillon on 05\/10. The golden-coloured grapes were handpicked in four passes. They were rich, tasty, fresh, and in prime condition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe white of the vintage is the 2016 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc, which comes from a high-density planting of 30-year-old vines located west and south of the town of Léognan. A blend of 75% Sauvignon and 25% Sémillon raised in 35% new barrels, it offers a massive bouquet of crushed citrus, salty minerality, white flowers, and grapefruit. Racy, full-bodied, concentrated and beautifully textured, it’s a brilliant wine that has more flesh and texture than the 2015 and will keep for two decades or more. Hats off to the team at Domaine de Chevalier for this brilliant, brilliant white!\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points- James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eStill very shy on the nose, but the candied citrus, fresh melon, pear and quince notes come through on the palate, together with discreet, toasty oak. Although this is really concentrated, the power is underplayed and the enormous, herbal and mineral depth steals up on you slowly and then whisks you away. You could enjoy it now, but there’s enormous aging potential. A blend of 70 per cent sauvignon and 30 per cent semillon. Try in 2021.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eThis luscious wine from old-vine Sauvignon Blanc is filled out even further by the 30% Sémillon in the blend. It is rich in feel and intense in a white fruit flavor, with touches of spice from the wood aging. It is fresh and textured on the finish. Drink from 2024. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is so young right now, which seems crazy to say for a white wine, I know. But at two years old it has hardly begun to gather us to its side, let alone reveal its secrets. This will clearly have plenty to show in a few years' time - white peach and pear flavours, and a gorgeous texture of slate caught against saline minerality. This is going to age, and then some. It has closed down since 2016 En primeur.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis flirts with a tropical hint, as peach and nectarine details peek in on the core of meringue, lemon peel, shortbread, melon and yellow apple fruit flavors. Heather and macadamia nut notes gild the finish, which is rounded along the edges but still racy through the middle. This needs a little time to settle in fully. Best from 2021 through 2030.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44978575474993,"sku":"","price":157.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Domaine-de-Chevalier-Blanc-Bordeaux-France-2016.jpg?v=1762533361"},{"product_id":"chateau-daiguilhe-castillon-cotes-de-bordeaux-france-2020","title":"Chateau d'Aiguilhe, Castillon, Côtes de Bordeaux, France, 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAcquired by Stephan von Neipperg at the end of 1998, Château d’Aiguilhe is one of the most beautiful estates in the Castillon - Côtes de Bordeaux. The existing building, a sort of fortified farm, dates from the 13th century. Everything leads us to believe that the Aiguilhe seigneury covered a very large tract of land in the Middle Age, encompassing several important fiefs. Located on the border between French-controlled and English-controlled areas during the Hundred Years’ War, the Château played a major military role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, the estates covers 111 hectares, of which 50 are devoted to winegrowing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vines (80% Merlot - 20% Cabernet Franc) grow uniquely on the upper part of the slope, where they find excellent natural drainage and south-facing sun exposure. The thin layer of relatively meagre clay-limestone and clay-silt soil covers a limestone substratum that provides wonderful water regulation. These natural advantages, combined with old vines, are conducive to producing powerful and mineral wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe estate is expertly managed by Jean-Patrick Meyrignac. It benefits from the tried and tested winegrowing methods used by Stephan von Neipperg at his Saint-Emilion estates: letting the terroir express itself fully, low yields and a very flexible approach to winemaking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStephan von Neipperg\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"Corps\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eC\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eô\u003c\/span\u003etes de Bordeaux, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVinification in oak and concrete tanks. Extraction by pneumatic punching down. Vatting for 40 days. Aging on fine lees, carried out in French oak barrels (30% new). The Chateau d'Aiguilhe vineyards extend over almost 90 hectares in the heart of the Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux appellation. The vineyard is exclusively planted in clay-limestone and clay-loam soils.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA solid density of fruit with blackberry, white pepper and some salt. Walnut undertones. Very long and flavorful. Compact palate. Very well done.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eViolet reflections, great clarity of colour and immediate whoosh of salinity through the redcurrant fruits. Powerful and focused with bright berry flavours, it practically defines the term crunchy fruit, then softens to show creamier black cherry purée as it relaxes in the glass. Really a very tasty d'Aiguilhe from Vignobles Comtes von Neipperg. Extremely moreish. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom the up-and-coming Castillon region, just east of Saint-Emilion, the 2020 Chateau D'Aiguilhe has a floral, cassis, and black raspberry-driven style that shows more tobacco and classic limestone minerality with time in the glass. It's medium to full-bodied, has fine tannins, and the balance and class to evolve for 10-15 years. It's a seriously good Castillon, even better than the brilliant 2019. Best After 2023.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNicely rendered, with a very pure beam of cassis and cherry puree leading the way, infused gently with violet and savory accents. The fresh, focused finish is sneaky long. Merlot and Cabernet Franc.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eAromas of cassis, dark berries and cherries mingle with subtle hints of incense and spices in an inviting bouquet to introduce the 2020 d'Aiguilhe, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered wine with powdery tannins and the lively acids that are typical of this later-ripening, limestone-rich sector. Always a notable value, this age-worthy cuvée has turned out very well this year. Best After 2023\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Atherton","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45245058449713,"sku":"","price":31.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau-d_Aiguilhe-Castillon-Cotes-de-Bordeaux-France-2020.jpg?v=1683505074"},{"product_id":"chateau-latour-pauillac-bordeaux-france-2015","title":"Château Latour, Grand Vin de Latour Premier Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France, 2015","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eVault Wine: This wine is stored in our vault.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAt the beginning of the eighteenth century, Chateau Latour started to be highly recognized around the world, thanks to the reconquest of the British market and the development of the wine business in Northern Europe. The aristocracy and other wealthy groups of consumers became very enthusiastic about a few great estates, of which Latour was one. And that was how Thomas Jefferson, ambassador of the United States in France, and future President, discovered this wine in 1787. At that time, a cask of Chateau Latour was already worth twenty times as much as one of ordinary Bordeaux wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reputation of Chateau Latour was consolidated during the 19th century. It was confirmed in 1855, when the government of Napoléon III decided to classify the growths of the Médoc and the Graves for the International Exhibition in Paris: Chateau Latour was classified as a First Growth. The existing chateau was built during this \"Golden Age\", between 1862 and 1864. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e97.1% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2.6% Merlot, 0.3% Petit Verdot\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePaulillac, Bordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDark ruby color. Very elegant nose with beautiful aromatic purity. Generous and powerful on the palate with a velvety mouthfeel, full of silky tannins. Brimming with energy, the finale is superbly precise with fabulous length.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e99 Points - The Wine Independent \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e97-99 Points - Wine Enthusiast \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e97–99. Barrel Sample. Seriously structured and yet also so smooth, this wine has great concentration and powerful tannins. There is wonderful juiciness here as well as dense, dusty tannins that are never hard, always velvet. It is going to be a great wine when it is released in maybe 10 years time. The wine comes only from vineyards that are biodynamic.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - The Wine Cellar Insider\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStill holding on to its depth of color. The wine already shows some development with its truffle, oyster shell, cassis, Asian spice, dark red fruits and cherry tones. This is a Latour of elegance, purity of fruit and silky texture over power that is coupled with layers of concentrated fruits, and the structure to age for generations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcluded from additional discounting. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47847134789937,"sku":null,"price":1194.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/ChateauLatour_GrandVindeLatourPremierGrandCruClasse_Pauillac_Bordeaux_France_2015.jpg?v=1757425141"},{"product_id":"chateau-la-garde-blanc-pessac-leognan-bordeaux-france-2019","title":"Chateau La Garde, Blanc, Pessac-Leognan, Bordeaux, France, 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial price!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"We bought Château la Garde in June 1990, totally seduced by the exceptional quality of the terroir, which is quite possibly one of the finest gravel outcrops in the Pessac-Léognan appellation. Motivated by this ambitious project, worthy of this magnificent terroir, considerable time and finances have been invested and have been rewarded with the increasingly frequent production of delicate, elegant and appealing fine Pessac-Léognan wines.\" -Patrick Jestin \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLocated on one of the appellation's finest gravel outcrops, Château La Garde was one of the first vineyard estates to make a conscious commitment to preserve and protect the natural environment and adopt integrated viticulture. It is now \"Terra Vitis\" certified. It is an approach resulting in the production of premium quality grapes, and is fully mindful of both Man and the environment. Powerful and revealing intense colour, the red wines of Château La Garde Pessac-Léognan are well-structured and concentrated and ideal for ageing. Round, supple and alluring, they reflect the elegance and finesse of the terroir and today feature among the elite of the Pessac-Léognan appellation.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e89% Sauvignon blanc, 11% Sémillon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRipe, attractive stone fruit aromas at first. Subtle citrus additions. Concentrated palate. Textural, but not intrusive oak. Lovely length. Juicy finish. Slightly spicy, mineral. Almost Pouilly-Fumé like. Very good.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNot much is produced of this wine, which comes from a small portion of the La Garde vineyard. It has a freshness from the high proportion of Sauvignon Blanc in the blend. Crisply textured, it will benefit from more time to bring out the supporting wood aging. Drink from 2023.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"KJS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50334301749553,"sku":null,"price":39.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/ChateauLaGarde_BlancPessac-Leognan_Bordeaux_France_2019.jpg?v=1759500258"},{"product_id":"chateau-margaux-pavillon-blanc-second-vin-bordeaux-france-2022","title":"Château Margaux, Pavillon Blanc, Second Vin, Bordeaux, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChateau Margaux, a Premier Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux, is one of the most famous wines in the world. Care has been lavished on the property by a line of owners with an abiding concern for the reputation of the estate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more than five hundred years, season after season, generations of vineyard-workers, grape harvesters, cellar-workers, coopers and many other craftsmen have all played a part in making Chateau Margaux what it is today: a wine with an incomparable personality, reflected in the elegant Palladian building which adorns its label. In 1977, the estate was purchased by the late André Mentzelopoulos, and it is now run by his daughter, Corinne Mentzelopoulos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCorinne Mentzelopoulos\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #c23e12;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100% Sauvignon Blanc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePavillon Blanc Second Vin has a complex and floral nose leading to a creamy palate balanced by a fresh, saline finish. Only 8,000 bottles of Pavillon Blanc Second Vin were produced for this first vintage, with yields that were among the lowest in the estate’s history.\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51201713340721,"sku":null,"price":209.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Margaux_Pavillon_Blanc_Second_Vin_Bordeaux_France_2022.jpg?v=1743344301"},{"product_id":"chateau-haut-de-la-becade-pauillac-bordeaux-france-2011","title":"Château Haut de La Becade, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France, 2011","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis wine was a special find!  Advanced but not old - I think you will enjoy it if you like Bordeaux.  A great value.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChâteau Haut de la Bécade is a family-owned estate that has been making wine for several generations. Pauillac is a special appellation in the Haut-Medoc region of Bordeaux that makes highly sought after wines because of their balance, finesse, and the ability to age gracefully.  The estate has been owned by the Rainaud family since 1933  and is located next to the most famous Chateaux in Pauillac including Chateau Lynch Bages, Pichon Baron, and Pichon Lalande de Comtesse.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eRainaud Family\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChâteau Haut de la Bécade 2011 is a lovely red Bordeaux, at its peak. From prestigious Pauillac, it has classic dark berry \u0026amp; plum, tobacco, game and cedar. Medium-full, with a succulent mid-palate and soft tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grapex","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51387406909745,"sku":null,"price":25.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Haut_de_La_Becade_Pauillac_2011_fdae2110-73ac-4832-85e1-9a7358ec6b94.jpg?v=1767904212"},{"product_id":"chateau-du-retout-haut-medoc-cru-bourgeois-superieur-france-2022","title":"Chateau du Retout, Haut-Medoc Cru, Bourgeois Superieur, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Phylloxera crisis at the end of the 19th century destroyed most of the French vineyards. Shortly after, the First World War, as well as the splitting up of properties due to inheritance laws, often led to the abandonment of winegrowing in general and even to the disappearance of some of the smaller wine estates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis was the case with Château Retou-Rosset in Lamarque and Château Salva de Camino in Cussac Fort Médoc, both of which were classified “crus bourgeois”, as well as another estate, the “petit cru” Château Moulina. It was only in the 1950s, after their acquisition by the Kopp family, that these estates were brought back to life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter a great deal of time and effort, the vineyards were gradually rebuilt. Today, this estate is still run by the Kopp family; daughter and son-in-law.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eEric Boissenot\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe Médoc grape varieties and soils give us wines with superb, dense, dark hues, ranging from deep garnet to ruby-crimson, taking on brick red shades with orange tints with age. Very intense and expressive aromas with powerful notes of black fruit such as blackcurrants and blackberries. In older wines, the nose develops a spicy bouquet of liquorice, leather and marshmallow mingled with the vanilla scents created by well-integrated oak. Harmonious, elegant and velvety, with smooth, round tannins, that can be appreciated from the wine's entry to the palate through to the finish. These are delightfully full-bodied wines with great aromatic persistence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e#45 of Top 100, 2024. Shows the ripeness of the vintage, with dark currant and blackberry notes framed by singed cedar and vanilla. Ends with a tug of warm earth, a light twang of iron and a steady grip. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2034. 9,600 cases made, 1,990 cases imported.\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2022 Château du Retout has a bright nose with redcurrant, raspberry and blood orange aromas. Underlying graphite notes emerge with time and impart more classicism. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins that lend this Haut-Médoc a sensual satin-like texture. Very composed, this sashays along with style. This classy offering should ultimately land at the top of my banded score.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot, the 2022 du Retout reveals an elegantly reduced, vibrant bouquet of dark berries, cassis, spices and bay leaf. Medium to full-bodied, enrobing and charming, it's supple and round for a Médoc with delicate, velvety tannins and a long, fruity finish. It should age gracefully over the next decade.\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOlives, paprika and spiced currants throughout with firm but dissolved tannins that turn caressing and polished in a linear, medium-length finish. Fine-grained and not chewy. Drink from 2025.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"mosaic","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51447356129585,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_du_Retout_Haut-Medoc_Cru_Bourgeois_Superieur_France_2022.jpg?v=1749151784"},{"product_id":"chateau-les-cruzelles-lalande-de-pomerol-bordeaux-france-2020","title":"Chateau Les Cruzelles, Lalande-de-Pomerol, Bordeaux, France, 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"text-decoration-line: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux legend Denis Durantou purchased Les Cruzelles in 2000. Recognising the fine terroir of Lalande de Pomerol, a commune that often runs the risk of being overlooked, he quickly turned this unknown estate into a top performer. It lies just north of his flagship estate, L’Eglise-Clinet in Pomerol proper, and displays a grace and complexity that echoes its big brother but at a much lower price. In fact, if you know where to look you can see the vines of Les Cruzelles from the vineyards of L’Eglise-Clinet. Crucially, the vineyards share the same clay soils so are perfect for producing fine Merlot, and the vineyard is split 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc. Denis Durantou sadly passed away in 2020 and his wife and daughters have taken over the running of his estates and we are sure will continue to develop the great potential that Denis recognised in Les Cruzelles. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemakers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNoémie Durantou and Olivier Gautrat\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePomerol, Bordeaux, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e...a clear difference in the vintage, with beautifully sculpted bitter almond and frangipane, tobacco, liqourice and black cherry. This is a Lalande-de-Pomerol with true character, starts off pretty austere and then widens through the mid palate and delivers creamy blue fruit. 50% new oak, harvest September 10 to 16. 3.72ph, 38hl\/ha yield. Noemie Durantou winemaker alongside Olivier Gautrat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eOn another level, the 2020 Château Les Cruzelles checks in as 80% Merlot and 20 %Cabernet Franc raised in 50% new French oak. It has terrific aromatics of black raspberries, plums, damp earth, and chocolate, and it would easily pass undetected in a lineup of top Pomerols. Medium to full-bodied, layered, and opulent, it's a no-brainer that readers will love. It’s every bit as good as the 2019 and will evolve for at least a decade\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2020 Les Cruzelles is a serious, potent Lalande de Pomerol that is going to need a few years to soften. I wouldn't think of touching a bottle any time soon. Firm yet well-balanced tannins lend energy and drive. Black cherry, graphite, sage, mint, tobacco and incense add to an impression of virile intensity that gains vigour over time. This is such a gorgeous and inviting wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2020 Les Cruzelles is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, coming from gravelly clay soil. The Merlot was picked from the 10th to the 15th September, and the Cabernet Franc was picked on the 16th of September. It has an alcohol of 14.5% and is aging in French oak barrels, 50% new. Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts with impactful notes of plum preserves, blueberry compote and kirsch, plus suggestions of violets, mocha and pencil lead. The medium to full-bodied palate explodes with vibrant black fruits and fantastic freshness, framed by ripe, velvety tannins, finishing long and fragrant. 18,000 bottles are expected to be made.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Atherton","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51867183972657,"sku":null,"price":43.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Les_Cruzelles_Lalande-de-Pomerol_Bordeaux_France_2020.jpg?v=1758634953"},{"product_id":"chateau-lafite-rothschild-pauillac-bordeaux-france-2005","title":"Château Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France, 2005","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChateau Lafite Rothschild is one of only four classified first growths and thus the designation as 1st er Cru. The vintage rankings of the Universal Paris Exposition in 1855 officially gave Lafite the rating as “Leader among fine wines.” W\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehile the first known reference to Lafite dates to 1234 with a certain Gombaud de Lafite, abbot of the Vertheuil Monastery north of Pauillac, Lafite’s mention as a medieval fief dates to the 14th century. The name Lafite comes from the Gascon language term “la hite”, which means “hillock”. There were probably already vineyards on the property at the time when the Ségur family organised the vineyard in the 17th century, and Lafite began to earn its reputation as a great winemaking estate. Jacques de Ségur was credited with the planting of the Lafite vineyard in the 1670s and in the early 1680s. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe estate achieved wide popularity in the 1750s when it became the favorite wine of King Louis XV. Thomas Jefferson was also a steadfast customer and even visited the estate. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAfter the 1973-1976 mini-crisis that hit Bordeaux, Baron Eric’s management of the estate made strides forward with a search for excellence and the gradual addition of a new technical team. In 1985 Baron Eric began a tradition of inviting fine-arts photographers to photograph Chateau Lafite. Today, his daughter Saskia de Rothschild \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003erepresents the 6th generation of the family at the head of the winemaking properties. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePaulillac, Bordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eDeep color. An intense, delicate, subtle and complex nose. Very neat and regular on the palate upon attack leading to volume and a nicely round structure. Highly powerful, great length, dense and purely elegant.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAn incredible nose, so subtle with red fruits, mint, minerals, and all sorts of flowers give way to Cohiba cigar tobacco. The palate has such freshness and density, with perfectly polished tannins. Slightly leathery, like a wonderful Hermes bag.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine is initially dense, almost thick enough to be cut with a knife. But then it becomes apparent that this is beautifully integrated and balanced, bringing together power, with the hallmark Lafite style and poise. In the end, you have a wine that promises an impressive aging potential along with delicious black currant fruits, acidity and a layer of striking tannins. Imported by Domaines Barons de Rothschild and multiple U.S. importers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA wine worthy of superlatives, the 2005 Lafite showed incredible concentration yet a superb balance. The lovely blackcurrant and plum fruit shows a fragrant floral edge, hints of oak spice, and a firm, earthy underpinning. The texture is superbly elegant, with a lovely freshness and a lilting, silky finish, yet it does not lack a tannic grip, and the finish is satisfyingly long. Near perfection. A blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot with just a drop of Petit Verdot, aged in new casks.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine and Spirits\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLafite is the most elegant of the firsts in 2005; it also may be the most romantic. The wine's heady scent of new oak rises in harmony with the succulent red fruit. Then the tannins come on with a gentle roar, layering the perception of flavors in subtle shadings. There's not a trace of the hyperintensity that so many young 2005s wear as if required for their longevity. The stones of Lafite grow something more numinous than that, a wine with the power to strike an emotional chord through taste. This will be one of the longest lived wines of 2005.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDelivers blackberry, dried porcini, tobacco and licorice aromas. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and loads of dark chocolate, cigar box, currant, berry and mineral. The finish is long, with a coffee, almost meaty, aftertaste. Very beautiful and balanced.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2005 Château Lafite-Rothschild is a beauty, and it has that quintessential power paired with incredible elegance and complexity that this Château does so well. Based on 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot, it has perfumed notes of red and black fruits, freshly sharpened pencils, saddle leather, graphite, and spice. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied 2005 that has a layered, balanced mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It stays relatively focused and tight on the palate, and benefits from air. Drink bottles any time over the coming 20-30 years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHaving tasted the 2005 Château Lafite-Rothschild several times both blind and non-blind, it comes across as a First Growth politely requesting more time to \"settle\". Here, from an ex-château bottle tasted in Bordeaux, it delivers that graphite, pencil-box bouquet that unfurls gradually in the glass, biding its time, graceful but not intense. Parallel to some of its fellow 2005s, it is developing a little more spice, namely thyme and sage, than I recall. The palate is medium-bodied and beautifully balanced, to wit, a sophisticated Pauillac that priorities elegance and poise over intensity of fruit—in keeping with Lafite Rothschild's style. You come away with the sense that it will take its time and decline, giving away a great deal in its primacy, even if it is still more approachable than the 2005 Latour for example. Therefore, I would be inclined to set this aside for several more years. Tasted November 2014.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52262706446641,"sku":null,"price":1449.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Lafite_Rothschild_Pauillac_Bordeaux_France_2005.jpg?v=1767127186"},{"product_id":"chateau-haut-de-la-becade-pauillac-bordeaux-france-2022","title":"Château Haut de La Becade, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChâteau Haut de la Bécade is a family-owned estate that has been making wine for several generations. Pauillac is a special appellation in the Haut-Medoc region of Bordeaux that makes highly sought after wines because of their balance, finesse, and the ability to age gracefully.  The estate has been owned by the Rainaud family since 1933  and is located next to the most famous Chateaux in Pauillac including Chateau Lynch Bages, Pichon Baron, and Pichon Lalande de Comtesse.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eRainaud Family\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDisplays classic Pauillac aromas of lovely cassis and gravelly stone. Dark violet in color expressing a youthful hue. The medium acidity reflects its ability to continue to age with a backbone. This medium to full-bodied wine shows good clay and mineral-granite character along the length of the palate; while being encased in red currant and violet essence. This wine will continue to get better over the next 10 years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Decanter (World Wine Awards - Platinum)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGlossy black cherry and blueberry fruit with a voluptuous smoky quality from the lashings of new French oak. The fine pencil-shaving tannins are already starting to melt away revealing a rewarding freshness. Very smart wine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grapex","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52386567586097,"sku":null,"price":46.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Haut_de_La_Becade_Pauillac_Bordeaux_France_2022.jpg?v=1768573027"},{"product_id":"chateau-mouton-rothschild-pauillac-bordeaux-france-2000","title":"Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France, 2000","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVault Wine: This wine is stored in our vault.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChateau Mouton Rothschild, a Premier Cru Classé from the Bordeaux region and one of the world's greatest wines, is owned by Baroness Philippine de Rothschild. The estate includes 205 acres of vines at Pauillac planted with Cabernet Sauvignon (77%), Merlot (11%), Cabernet Franc (10%) and Petit Verdot (2%).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1853, Baron Nathaniel de Rothschild bought Chateau Brane-Mouton. In 1922, his great-grandson Baron Philippe de Rothschild (1902-1988) decided to take the future of the estate into his own hands. His 65 years at Mouton bear witness to the strength of his personality, his spirit of enterprise and his sense of innovation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1922, he was the first to introduce chateau bottling. In 1926, he built the famous Grand Chai, the majestic 100-meter first year cellar, which has become a major attraction for visitors to Mouton. 1945 marked the start of a fascinating collection of works of art, created every year for the Mouton label by famous painters. In 1973, after a twenty-year battle, Baron Philippe obtained a revision of the 1855 classification and Mouton was officially recognized as a First Growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1988, Baroness Philippine de Rothschild succeeded her father Baron Philippe. She has become the guarantor of the quality of an illustrious wine whose motto proudly proclaims, \"First I am, second I was, I Mouton do not change.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePhilippe Dhalluin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe wine has an attractively deep color with a garnet hue and an open, complex nose dominated by notes of humus and fern along with jammy fruit and prunes. Full on the attack, it shows opulence and attractive substance over close-knit, caressing tannins, developing intense roast coffee notes set off by a lovely reminder of the humus aromas on the nose. The powerful, full-bodied finish lingers long on the palate, revealing the expression and sheer class of great Mouton vintages, reminiscent in its richness and harmony of the very fine 1986.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeep garnet colored with a touch of brick, the 2000 Mouton Rothschild (composed of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot) boldly bursts from the glass with tantalizing Black Forest cake, dried mulberries, kirsch and blackcurrant pastilles notes plus wafts of iodine, incense, potpourri and cinnamon stick with a hint of cigar boxes. Medium to full-bodied, the palate packs in the muscular fruit, framed by firm, ripe, grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with phenomenal length. This is an incredibly complex and multifaceted wine, and it's drinking deliciously now. This said, I can’t help but feel that it is holding something back, that it still has another layer of opulence and seduction to reveal in its tight-knit fruit and solid structure. I personally can’t wait to see how this beauty will continue to unfold over the years to come. Rating: 97+\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith its distinctive antique bottle and gold etched label dominated by a sheep, this is definitely a move away from classic Bordeaux bottling. It is good that the wine can support the presentation. The fruit is so ripe, it almost tastes of raisins, but that sweetness is finely balanced by the dry tannins and concentrated texture. To finish, there are exotic spices, giving an almost oriental character to the long aftertaste.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Decanter\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA little more open than the other four Firsts in the vintage, with undergrowth, baked earth and gentle spice alongside the truffles, smoked caramel, spice and bilberry fruits. It shows plenty of the trademark Mouton generosity and ripe tannic structure and is lusciously textured. This came in at 80% 1st wine. It wasn't until Philippe Dhalluin arrived a few years later that production for the 1st wine would be lowered, with significantly more Petit Mouton being made (Lafite and Latour both closer to 50% 1st wine for similar sized estates). That's not to say that you won't be thrilled to open and drink this wine, and it will undoubtedly show that same stubborn unwillingness to fade away that the First Growths all share. 100% new oak. (JA)\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Int'l Wine Cellar\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBright deep ruby with the barest hint of garnet; still very youthful. Enticing, complex nose of cassis, smoky cedar, violet, underbrush and kirsch; very Pauillac, if in a ripe style. Dense, rich and suave in the mouth, with lively acidity nicely framing the rich flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry jam, milk chocolate, grilled bread and spicy underbrush. Finishes with noble tannins and outstanding chocolatey persistence. A great Mouton and much better than another recently tasted bottle that had shown some signs of premature evolution. Though this wine comes across as quite smoky and chocolatey, Tourbier points out that Mouton has been using barrels with a medium or medium-plus toast since 1994 (more heavily charred barrels were used here from 1989 through 1993). The excellent millennium vintage featured a hot and humid year characterized by a very large crop and a fairly rainy first part of the year, but a very dry and warm second half resulted in considerable hydric stress (especially on the Right Bank.) (ID)\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe nose is very intense, super-ripe and rich, verging on jammy. Notes of leather, spices and prunes. Full-bodied, soft and beautiful with ripe tannins and a long finish. This is soft and yummy right now. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRounded, fleshy and a bit extracted in feel, with dark plum, blackberry and fig jam flavors that flirt with a pruny edge, picking up lots of warm mocha, singed vanilla bean and ganache notes through the finish. This relies more on easy opulence than on depth or purity on the end.—2000 Bordeaux blind retrospective (December 2015). Drink now through 2023. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750mL\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53144062066993,"sku":null,"price":2495.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Mouton_Rothschild_Pauillac_Bordeaux_France_2000.jpg?v=1773269227"},{"product_id":"chateau-faizeau-selection-vieilles-vignes-montagne-saint-emilion-bordeaux-france-2019","title":"Chateau Faizeau, Selection Vieilles Vignes,  Montagne-Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, France, 2019 (RIP Michel Rolland)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBetween Pomerol on the West and Saint-Emilion on the South, Château Faizeau is nestled in the beautiful appellation of Montagne Saint-Emilion in the center of the most prestigious terroirs of the Libournais. Château Faizeau is one of the oldest wine-growing terroirs in Bordeaux already appearing on the 18th century historique Belleyme map. This high-quality vineyard flourishes on a plateau bathed in sunshine, sometimes shaded by maritime pines. With a majority of Merlot, Château Faizeau is one of the most full-bodied wines of its appellation, which has earned it the name of “Tenor”. In a constant concern to optimize the potential of the terroir, Château Faizeau relies on the knowledge of Michel Rolland and Julien Viaud who intervene during the key stages in the development of this great wine. Diligente about respecting the environment and its terroir, the property has been HVE level 3 certified since 2020.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker: Michel Rolland (RIP)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"63\" data-end=\"143\"\u003eMichel Rolland was more than a winemaker—he was a defining voice in modern wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"145\" data-end=\"414\"\u003eHailing from \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003ePomerol\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eMichel Rolland\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e helped shape the character of wines across \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eBordeaux\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e and around the world, crafting bottles known for their richness, balance, and unmistakable polish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"416\" data-end=\"528\"\u003eHis influence transformed a generation of winemaking, blending tradition with innovation in a way few ever have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"648\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eNow, we raise a glass in his honor—celebrating a legacy that will live on in every bottle he touched.\u003cbr data-start=\"631\" data-end=\"634\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"648\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eRest in peace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape\/Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e93% Merlot,\u003cbr\u003e7% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"align-middle smaller font-light-bold\"\u003eMontagne-Saint-Emilion, France \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChâteau Faizeau has a garnet color, very sustained and brilliant, with pretty fuschia nuances. The nose is complex, both fruity and spicy. It exhales aromas of blackberry jam, licorice and graphite. The palate is ample, balanced and persistent with notes of black fruit jam.\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA rather juicy and rich red with blackberry and black-mushroom character, as well as some dried fruit. Dark chocolate, too. Full-bodied, chewy and flavorful. Give this time to soften the tannins and tame the rusticity of the wine. Try after 2024. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"fws_69f128f4e899a\" data-midnight=\"\" data-column-margin=\"default\" class=\"wpb_row vc_row-fluid vc_row inner_row vc_row-o-content-bottom\" style=\"padding-bottom: 10%;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row-bg-wrap\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row-bg\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Regal Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54042898661681,"sku":"INTERNAL_SKU_ID:1","price":36.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/ChateauFaizeau_SelectionVieillesVignes_Montagne-Saint-Emilion_Bordeaux_France_2019.jpg?v=1777602615"}],"url":"https:\/\/merchantofwine.com\/collections\/july-9-first-growth-dinner.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}