PRE-ORDER About Winery Château Lascombes, a Margaux Second Growth estate, boasts a history dating back to the 17th century when the Durfort de Duras family owned the land. The estate was named after the Lascombes family in the 18th century. Throughout its history, the estate has seen various owners, including the American investment firm Colony Capital. Today, it is a 117-hectare estate with 50 hectares of vineyards, known for its traditional and modern winemaking techniques. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2000 | JS 100 The 2000 is defined by its deep garnet color, extreme richness, and complex notes of graphite, hoisin, crème de cassis, cedar, and smoky fruitcake. 2004 | WE 97 Highlights supreme elegance, sweet cassis flavors, and dry tannins. 2005 |  JS 100 Deep ruby/purple color with intense aromas of graphite, crème de cassis, black fruits, and cedar. 2006 | D 97 Dense ruby/purple color with "noble tannins" and strong tannic structure that has softened over time. 2008 | WA 97 Offers classic Pauillac notes of cedar, cassis, tobacco, and crushed stones with a very long finish. 2010 | WA 100 Powerful crème de cassis, black forest cake, charcoal, graphite, and cedar. Full-bodied, incredibly concentrated, with "sweet" tannin and a long finish. 2012 | V 97 The 2012 is characterized as a "restrained" and "elegant" vintage compared to more powerful years, featuring a 90.2% Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend.  2013 | JS 93 Fresh and vibrant with a medium body, fine tannins, and a long, spicy finish. 2014 | JS 99 Bright red cherry, blackcurrant (cassis), spicy tobacco, and graphite. 2015 | JS 98 Rich, supple, and demonstrative, yet classic and structured. Dark fruits, cassis, loamy soil, espresso, and cedar. 2017 | JS 99 Ripe blackcurrant, violets, liquorice, and earthy notes with high-quality, fine-grained tannins.   About Winery Château Latour, a renowned Bordeaux winery, has a rich history spanning centuries. Its name comes from a fortress tower built in the 14th century, used for defense during the Hundred Years' War. The estate, known for its powerful and complex red wines, has seen various owners throughout its history, including the Segur family, who held it for almost 300 years. Today, his daughter Saskia de Rothschild represents the 6th generation of the family at the head of the winemaking properties.   

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2013 | WE 93 Here's a complex, rich wine that has fine acidity as well as ripe blackberry fruits. It's certainly firmly structured, but it has the flesh to support it 2016 | JS 98 Exotic aromas of blackberries, truffle, earth and cedar follow through to a full body, rich and layered tannins and a long, long finish. Shows so much here. Exotic. 2018 | JS 97 Aromas of plums, violets and mushrooms with earthy notes. Fleshy and succulent texture to the full body with round, firm tannins and a salivating, savory finish. Very persistent. Opulent and reserved at the same time. Contrastive wine.  2019 | JS 98 This is a luscious and beautiful young wine with blackberry, hazelnut, dark-chocolate and black-olive character. It’s full and layered with round, soft tannins and a caressing finish. Great finish. Seductive young wine.  2020 | JS 98-99 This is a young red with great intensity and vision that starts off slowly and builds with energy and verve. It’s so minerally with salty, chalky and spice undertones to the cool and vibrant, purple and subtle-fruit flavors. The tannins are wonderfully toned and polished and build on the palate to deliver something very special. 2021 | JS 95-96 Opulent and pure with currants and blackberries and some floral and orange undertones. Medium to full body. Fine tannins. Bright at the end.   About Winery Originally called Domaine du Gay, Château Le Gay takes its name from the lieu-dit Le Gay, part of which was sold to the Greloud family that eventually became Château Lafleur. Coincidentally, Château Le Gay was inherited by the Robin sisters in 1946, who also happened to own Château Lafleur. Over the next few decades, under the ownership of the Robin sisters, Château Le Gay was managed by Jean-Pierre Moueix, who also purchased portions of the vineyard to add to the acreage of Château La Fleur-Pétrus. After the passing of the Robin sisters, Château Le Gay was acquired by Catherine Péré Vergé in 2002, who quickly increased the acreage and brought Michel Rolland on board as a consultant.

Read more less

2008 | JD 95 The 2008 Le Gay is a beauty. Still lively colored, with a complex bouquet of blackcurrants, savory cherries, earth, and dried herbs, this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, fine, elegant tannin, and a silky, layered, seamless texture. It has a beautiful finish and is an incredibly classy, elegant wine. 2017 | JD 94 PRE ORDER Showing beautifully in my tastings, the 2017 Chateau Le Gay makes the most of this solid vintage. Almost all Merlot from a great terroir on the plateau of Pomerol, it reveals a purple/ruby hue as well as medium to full-bodied notes of black cherry and cassis fruits, toasted spice, spring flowers, and damp earth. Shining more for its complexity and elegance than sheer power, it nevertheless has wonderful fruit, plenty of tannins, and a great finish.    About Winery Originally called Domaine du Gay, Château Le Gay takes its name from the lieu-dit Le Gay, part of which was sold to the Greloud family that eventually became Château Lafleur. Coincidentally, Château Le Gay was inherited by the Robin sisters in 1946, who also happened to own Château Lafleur. Over the next few decades, under the ownership of the Robin sisters, Château Le Gay was managed by Jean-Pierre Moueix, who also purchased portions of the vineyard to add to the acreage of Château La Fleur-Pétrus. After the passing of the Robin sisters, Château Le Gay was acquired by Catherine Péré Vergé in 2002, who quickly increased the acreage and brought Michel Rolland on board as a consultant.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2011 | WE 92 Ripe plum, red currant, gravel, and tobacco. Moderate tannins, higher Merlot content than the grand vin, and a smooth finish. 2020 | JS 97 A savory, classic red with fine tannins, offering notes of blackberries, blackcurrants, crushed stones, bark, and rose petals. 2021 | JS 93 Aromatic nose with ripe black plum, damson, toast, and hints of tobacco or graphite. Medium-bodied with a fresh, slightly "crunchy" red fruit character, balanced by firm but ripe tannins.   About Winery Chateau Leoville Las Cases is one of the largest and oldest classified growths in the Medoc region of France. Originally the other two Leovilles, Leoville Poyferre and Leoville Barton were part of the large estate. Today Leoville Las Cases comprises over 209 acres and has been run since 1950 by the Delon Family. Currently, the estate is run by the well-known Michel Delon. The estate stretches from Chateau Beychevelle down to Chateau Latour, and the main estate is a picturesque, enclosed 100 acre vineyard depicted on the label. The winery is established as a Second Growth. vineyard.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2015 | JS 96 Warm red currants, black raspberries, dark chocolate, cigar box, and violet. 2019 | WA 97 The wine is noted for being deep, concentrated, and structured with powdery tannins. It is described as a "timeless classic" and one of the finest in recent times for the estate. 2021 | WE 97 The 2021 is described as a "terrific success" for the vintage, showing intense, crunchy black fruit, refined tannins, and high-toned, lively acidity. About Winery In 1826, Hugh Barton, already proprietor of Chateau Langoa, purchased part of the big Leoville estate. His part then became known as Léoville Barton. Six generations of Bartons have since followed, and continued to preserve the quality of the wine, classified as a Second Growth in 1855. In 1983, Anthony Barton, the present owner, was given the property by his uncle Ronald Barton who had himself inherited it in 1929. Anthony Barton's daughter Lilian Barton Sartorius now helps her father in managing the estate. Together, they maintain the traditional methods of winemaking, producing a typical Saint-Julien of elegance and distinction. The Château Léoville Barton is the property of the Barton’s family and Lilian Barton Sartorius manages it with her two children, Mélanie and Damien.

Read more less

2002 | RP 92 A restrained, classic Bordeaux with cedar, graphite, and cassis. Solid but overshadowed by stronger vintages. Best for near-term drinking. 2005 | WE 96 Universally acclaimed, with deep cassis, graphite, and licorice notes. Dense tannins, superb delineation, and long finish. A wine for decades of aging. 2012 | WE 92 Elegant, mid-weight, with cassis, pencil shavings, and fine tannins. Approachable now, not a blockbuster but enjoyable. 2017 | WE 97 Impressive balance of plush fruit and firm tannins. Black fruits, graphite, cassis, and plum. Elegant, concentrated, and age-worthy. About Winery In 1826, Hugh Barton, already proprietor of Chateau Langoa, purchased part of the big Leoville estate. His part then became known as Léoville Barton. Six generations of Bartons have since followed, and continued to preserve the quality of the wine, classified as a Second Growth in 1855. In 1983, Anthony Barton, the present owner, was given the property by his uncle Ronald Barton who had himself inherited it in 1929. Anthony Barton's daughter Lilian Barton Sartorius now helps her father in managing the estate. Together, they maintain the traditional methods of winemaking, producing a typical Saint-Julien of elegance and distinction. The Château Léoville Barton is the property of the Barton’s family and Lilian Barton Sartorius manages it with her two children, Mélanie and Damien.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER About Winery Chateau Leoville Las Cases is one of the largest and oldest classified growths in the Medoc region of France. Originally the other two Leovilles, Leoville Poyferre and Leoville Barton were part of the large estate. Today Leoville Las Cases comprises over 209 acres and has been run since 1950 by the Delon Family. Currently, the estate is run by the well-known Michel Delon. The estate stretches from Chateau Beychevelle down to Chateau Latour, and the main estate is a picturesque, enclosed 100 acre vineyard depicted on the label. The winery is established as a Second Growth. vineyard.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2003 | WA 96 The spectacular 2003 Leoville Poyferre exhibits a dense purple color with a touch of lightening at the edge as well as notes of creosote, barbecue smoke, jammy black currants, licorice and spice box. This intense, voluptuously textured, full-bodied St.-Julien possesses low acidity and ripe tannin.  2011 | WS 94 This is a really fruity wine that’s opulent and gorgeously rich. There is a pepper edge, touches of new wood and a firm, dark core. Acidity and concentration are already integrated. 2017 | JS 95 A red with currant and blueberry aromas and flavors and some citrus and vanilla. Medium body and creamy, integrated tannins. Shows finesse and depth for the vintage. One of the best from the appellation.  2018 | JD 100 Based on 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, its dense purple hue is followed by an incredible, full-bodied monster of a wine that, despite massive amounts of fruit, tannin's, and extract, still stays weightless and ethereal, with incredible purity. Loaded with notions of crème de cassis, spring flowers, tobacco, violets, charcoal, and cedar pencil, it's extraordinarily concentrated, flawlessly balanced, and has a finish that won't quit. This is a legendary wine in the making.  2021 | JS 96 Excellent depth and complexity with a nice modern touch of cocoa powder to the black olives, pencil shavings, cassis, violets, black mushrooms and dark earth. Full-bodied palate with fresh, vertical tannins and lots of juicy fruit that seamlessly dissolve into the flavorful, persistent finish. Refined power with real length. About Winery With origins dating back to 1638, Léoville was the largest vineyard in the Médoc region at the time of the French Revolution. Léoville Poyferré springs from various divisions and successions in 1840. Its outstanding quality wines gained early recognition when it was ranked 2nd Growth in the 1855 classification. Château Léoville Poyferré was acquired in 1920 by the Cuvelier family. Château Léoville Poyferré was the Léoville that got left in the starting blocks in terms of reputation and in the quality of its wines. Léoville Poyferré has been owned by the Cuvelier family (who also own Château Le Crock) since 1921, yet it was not until the 1970s, when Didier Cuvelier took control at the château, that quality began to improve. In the last 20 years, Didier, with the assistance of Michel Rolland since 1995, has turned Léoville-Poyferré into one of StJulien's finest estates. Now up with the best of the St-Juliens but still selling at nonscary prices. Léoville Poyferré is classified as a 2ème Cru Classé

Read more less

2010 | JD 100 Deep cassis, tobacco, graphite, and leather; combines opulence with elegance. A wine for decades of aging 2012 | JS 92 More restrained, with currant fruit, cedar, and earthy tones. Fine tannins but less concentration. Best for near-term drinking, already approachable. 2014 | WE 93 Elegant, fresh acidity, cassis, blueberries, and tobacco leaf. Leaner style but balanced and long. A very good mid-term vintage. 2015 | WE 96 Rich, concentrated, with crème de cassis, lush fruit, and toasted notes. Powerful yet fresh, with Wine Enthusiast awarding 96 points. Excellent aging potential. About Winery With origins dating back to 1638, Léoville was the largest vineyard in the Médoc region at the time of the French Revolution. Léoville Poyferré springs from various divisions and successions in 1840. Its outstanding quality wines gained early recognition when it was ranked 2nd Growth in the 1855 classification. Château Léoville Poyferré was acquired in 1920 by the Cuvelier family. Château Léoville Poyferré was the Léoville that got left in the starting blocks in terms of reputation and in the quality of its wines. Léoville Poyferré has been owned by the Cuvelier family (who also own Château Le Crock) since 1921, yet it was not until the 1970s, when Didier Cuvelier took control at the château, that quality began to improve. In the last 20 years, Didier, with the assistance of Michel Rolland since 1995, has turned Léoville-Poyferré into one of StJulien's finest estates. Now up with the best of the St-Juliens but still selling at nonscary prices. Léoville Poyferré is classified as a 2ème Cru Classé

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2015 | WS 93 Silky, supple, and forward, offering a "sensuous" feel with a blend of dark fruits and mineral nuances. 2016 | WS 93 Fresh and vibrant, featuring red/black cherry, raspberry, and violet notes, with a velvety, structured texture. 2017 | WS 92 Supple, racy, and inviting. It is opulent yet fresh, showing high minerality with a generous texture and a "spicy bite" on the finish. 2018 | WS 94 Silky, fresh, and opulent profile. It features aromas of black raspberry, plum, licorice, and cocoa, with a concentrated, powdery texture from clay-limestone soils. 2019 | D 95 The wine is described as a "hidden gem" of the limestone plateau, characterized by savory, fresh, and pure fruit flavors with a long, velvety finish. 2020 | V 94 The wine is described as having a rich, velvety texture with notes of blackberries, licorice, sweet spices, and chalky mineral nuances. 2021 | V 92-94 Praised for its fragrant bouquet of blackberry, raspberry, and wilted rose petal, with a cohesive finish. About Winery Château Les Grandes Murailles, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé, has a rich history rooted in the remains of a 12th-century Dominican monastery. The estate's name, meaning "Great Walls," directly references the imposing ruin that still stands today. Originally a small plot of vines near this remnant of the monastery, the estate has been known as Les Grandes Murailles since at least the 19th century. In 2013, the property became part of the Cuvelier family portfolio, joining Château Clos Fourtet. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2010 | WA 97 The wine is known for its intense structure, balancing rich black fruit, graphite, and cedar with high, but polished, tannin levels. 2014 | JS 96 The wine is entering its optimal drinking window (2024-2025 onwards) but has the structure to age well for another decade or more. It is often described as a "classic" Bordeaux style, combining power and freshness.  2018 | JD 98 The wine is noted for its classic Pauillac aromas of lead pencil, cassis, graphite, and black fruit, with a powerful structure and long finish. 2019 | JD 100 The wine is described as powerful, rich, and concentrated, featuring notes of crème de cassis, cedar, black fruit, licorice, and graphite. 2021 | WE 96 Critics noted aromatic, classic aromas of blackcurrant, lead pencil shavings, iron filings, and cedar. The palate is described as having "sturdy frame of firm, grainy tannins" and "freshness".   About Winery 1855 Grand Cru Classe – 5th Growth The chateau was founded in the 18th century by the Liberal family. Most of the wines produced here were exported to the Netherlands and Belgium. Half of the wines of the chateau are planted just next to the First Growth Chateau Latour. Overlooking the Gironde estuary at the entrance to Pauillac, the vines of Lynch-Bages are located on the Bages plateau, on one of the finest gravelly rises in the appellation. The estate once belonged to the famous Lynch family, of Irish origin, and was acquired by Jean-Charles Cazes in 1934. His grandson, Jean-Michel Cazes restructured the estate in 1974, adding state-of-the-art winemaking equipment, while keeping the former wooden vats as a reminder of the 19th century.The grapes are all hand picked and then carefully sorted before crushing. A very strict selection is made prior to blending and the wine is traditionally aged in oak barrels before bottling. Today, the winery is managed by Claire Villars Lurton. Under her management the estate has undergone complete renovation to organic and biodynamic vineyard management. The grounds of the chateau were fully renovated in 2018.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER About Winery 1855 Grand Cru Classe – 5th Growth The chateau was founded in the 18th century by the Liberal family. Most of the wines produced here were exported to the Netherlands and Belgium. Half of the wines of the chateau are planted just next to the First Growth Chateau Latour. Overlooking the Gironde estuary at the entrance to Pauillac, the vines of Lynch-Bages are located on the Bages plateau, on one of the finest gravelly rises in the appellation. The estate once belonged to the famous Lynch family, of Irish origin, and was acquired by Jean-Charles Cazes in 1934. His grandson, Jean-Michel Cazes restructured the estate in 1974, adding state-of-the-art winemaking equipment, while keeping the former wooden vats as a reminder of the 19th century.The grapes are all hand picked and then carefully sorted before crushing. A very strict selection is made prior to blending and the wine is traditionally aged in oak barrels before bottling. Today, the winery is managed by Claire Villars Lurton. Under her management the estate has undergone complete renovation to organic and biodynamic vineyard management. The grounds of the chateau were fully renovated in 2018.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2014 | VIVINO 4.0 "The wine is described as having a steely red berry nose that is well-focused, with a supple, fleshy opening leading to a long finish. It displays savory character with hints of graphite, violet, and tobacco." 2018 | VIVINO 4.0 "A dense, full-bodied profile with ripe black fruit, plum, cassis, and a long finish. The wine displays delicate, fragrant aromas with fine tannins and subtle vanilla/oak." 2019 | VIVINO 4.0 "The 2019 offers a rich, silky texture with plum, blackberry, cassis, and chocolate notes, featuring a long, balanced finish." About Winery Château Magnan la Gaffelière, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, boasts a history dating back to the 1770s. Its origins are linked to the cooper at Château La Gaffelière, who drew inspiration for his own vineyard's name and wine style from his experience there. The estate, now spanning 10 hectares, is known for its clay and sandy soil, producing naturally delicate and generous wines. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2014 | WE 96 Known for its polished, velvety texture, graphite, cedar, and dark fruit (blackberries, plums) with a strong,, tannic structure. 2016 | WE 96 The 2016 vintage is noted for being a "classic" and polished wine, characterized by strong, ripe tannins, savory notes of black currant, dark berries, tobacco, graphite, and crushed rocks.  2017 | JS 93 elegant, medium-bodied profile, featuring notes of black cherry, cassis, and licorice, with a solid, well-integrated structure best enjoyed between 2022 and 2035 2018 | WE 96 The 2018 is noted for its deep, dark fruit, high-quality tannins, and a "two-climate" vintage profile 2019 | JS 96 A blend typically around 50%+ Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Known for blackberry, camphor, and graphite notes, requiring some bottle age but drinking well now with aeration. 2020 | WE 96 The 2020 red is noted for a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, offering notes of red and black fruit, lead pencil, and tobacco. It is considered a "brilliant" Pessac-Leognan that will improve with two decades of aging.  2021 | D 93 The 2021 vintage is characterized as a "fresh" year, with the wine displaying bright fruit, great precision in its tannins, and a subtle mineral vein.   About Winery Château Malartic-Lagravière has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century, when it was acquired by the family of Count Hippolyte de Maurès de Malartic. Initially known as Domaine de Lagravière, it was renamed in the 19th century to honor the Count's naval exploits. The estate went through various ownerships, including the Ricard family and Champagne Laurent-Perrier, before being purchased by the Bonnie family in 1997. The Bonnie family has since modernized the vineyard and winery, while emphasizing sustainable viticulture and a commitment to quality. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2015 | JS 95 The wine is characterized by its high quality in 2015, driven by a combination of, at the time, recent consulting efforts by Michel Rolland and Athanase Fakorellis, ensuring a highly integrated, aromatic profile. 2018 | JS 96 Aromas of apricot, passion fruit, lemon pie and custard. Crushed stones, fennel and cloves, too. It’s full-bodied with bright acidity and a layered, creamy texture. Long, rounded and mineral finish. Very tight and structured. 2020 | JD 97 The wines are well-balanced with great purity of fruit, sleek and very elegant tannins, enhanced by the very successful cellar work. The whites present terrific aromatic purity and really stand out; they are so precise, polished, round and fragrant. 2023 | JS 95-96 The wines are well-balanced with great purity of fruit, sleek and very elegant tannins, enhanced by the very successful cellar work. The whites present terrific aromatic purity and really stand out; they are so precise, polished, round and fragrant. About Winery Château Malartic-Lagravière has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century, when it was acquired by the family of Count Hippolyte de Maurès de Malartic. Initially known as Domaine de Lagravière, it was renamed in the 19th century to honor the Count's naval exploits. The estate went through various ownerships, including the Ricard family and Champagne Laurent-Perrier, before being purchased by the Bonnie family in 1997. The Bonnie family has since modernized the vineyard and winery, while emphasizing sustainable viticulture and a commitment to quality. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2006 | WA 95 Savory and classic, with a focus on elegance rather than raw power. 2007 | WE 93 Savory, classic, elegant, and soft rather than powerful. 2008 | WA 94 Deep creme de cassis, dark berry, and red currant, with notes of spring flowers, violets, and iron. 2010 | JS 100 Described as "liquid velvet" with a perfect balance of power and finesse. 2011 | D 96 Known for its "floral cassis fruit," "perfect texture," and "tremendous personality". 2014 | JS 97 The 2014 vintage is described as "classically elegant," with a "fresh finish" and "firm" but refined tannins. It offers a mix of intense black fruit, spice, and mineral tension, requiring several years of aging to reach full potential. 2015 | WE 100 Known for extreme richness combined with finesse, featuring notes of black currant, licorice, espresso, and violet. 2016 | WE 99 The wine is described as having intense aromas of blackcurrant, forest floor, and floral notes (violets) with a "fine bead of acidity". 2017 | JS 99 Finesse-driven, aromatic, and silky rather than heavy, with incredible depth and polished tannins 2019 | V 99 Features notes of cassis, plum, blackberry, violets, and graphite. 2020 | JS 100 A deep, intense wine, notes say it has a "pixelated" finish, with aromas of black cherries, blueberry, violet perfume, graphite, and cedar. 2021 | V 96 Classically styled with high acidity and lower alcohol (around) compared to 2019/2020. It is known for its aromatic complexity (violets, red fruits) and a silky, creamy texture.   About Winery Chateau 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. For more than five hundred years, season after season, generations of vineyard-workers, grapeharvesters, 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.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER About Winery Château Marquis d'Alesme Becker, a Margaux third growth, boasts a history dating back to 1585 when it was established by François d'Alesme, an advisor to King Henri III. The initial vineyards were planted in the early 1600s. The estate's name comes from the Marquis d'Alesme, one of the first aristocratic families to own the property. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER About Winery Château Meyney, a historic Saint-Estèphe estate, boasts a rich history dating back to the 17th century, originally established as a convent. It's one of the oldest properties in the Médoc region. The modern era of Château Meyney began in 1917 when it was acquired by the Cordier family. Today, the estate is owned by CA Grands Crus, a subsidiary of Crédit Agricole. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2010 | WA 100 Full-bodied with deep garnet color, featuring notes of blackcurrant, plum, cedar, charcoal, and graphite. It is noted for its "brick house" structure—dense, concentrated, and muscular. 2014 | WE 96 Intense aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, tobacco, and pencil shavings. It has powerful yet velvet tannins and a long,, precise finish. 2016 | WE 97 Intense aromas of cassis, blueberry, menthol, and graphite, with a muscular yet refined structure. 2017 | WA 97 Intense blackberry, cassis, juniper, and violet with a "cool" and reserved, yet powerful, structure. 2018 | JS 98 Deep garnet-purple, featuring intense aromas of black fruit (blackberry, cassis), violet, crushed stone, graphite, and cedar. 2019 | V 100 Rich, inky concentration with notes of black cherry, blackcurrant, tobacco, gravel, and licorice. 2020 | WA 100 Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Powerful yet precise with powdery tannins and intense black fruit. 2021 | WA 100 The 2021 is described as refined, with graphite, blackcurrant, and damson plum notes. It has a "surprisingly open and expressive" nature for a young Montrose.   About Winery Second growth classified in 1855. With its terroir of big gravels located by the river Gironde, its classic and powerful style, Montrose is often called the Latour of Saint Estephe. Montrose needs time to express its incomparable delicacy. In the first decade, its fantastic potential is hidden behind a certain austerity. In the second decade, the wines open themselves. In the third decade, they explode, and the terroir expresses itself. In the hands of the family Charmolle from 1896 to 2006, it is now run by Martin and Olivier Bouygues.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER About Winery Established as a Second Growth in the 1855 classification, Chateau Montrose enjoys an exceptional geographical situation in Saint-Estèphe, facing the Gironde estuary. Its 95-hectare (235-acre) vineyard thus benefits from the moderating influence of the vast water mass nearby during very hot summers and harsh winters. The vineyard is in a single sweep, a rare and priceless advantage in the region. The soil, consisting of deep gravel over clay, favours natural drainage and ensures that the vines benefit from a slow and regular water supply from the water reserves in the subsoil.An extensive renovation program with very strict environmental objectives has been carried out at the estate since it was acquired by Martin and Olivier Bouygues in 2006, reflecting the new owners’ determination to perpetuate the quality of the wine and make Chateau Montrose a model of skilled winemaking and sustainable development. Under the direction of Hervé Berland since 2012, the estate has 68 employees in the vineyard and winery, all of whom share the same philosophy: respect for the terroir and a constant quest for excellence. That philosophy is manifested in meticulous vineyard practices, very precise parcel selection and use of only the best grapes to make the premium wine, Chateau Montrose.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 1995 | JS 95 Its deep color, intense cassis aroma, and complex notes of cedar, tobacco, and truffle. It is considered a powerful, structured wine with robust tannins that has matured into a very refined, long-lived expression 1998 | WA 97 The 1998 Château Mouton Rothschild is a highly regarded, classic Pauillac that has developed into a complex, elegant wine, often considered one of the best of its vintage.  2000 | WA 97 Opulent style, featuring dark fruits, blackcurrant, and graphite, with powerful, velvety tannins and remarkable aging potential 2001 | WS 94 Very smoky, with berry, coffee and tobacco aromas. Full-bodied, with polished velvety tannins. Solid and very, very fine 2002 | WA 91 Tasted blind as a vintage comparison at the Valandraud vertical, the 2002 Mouton-Rothschild is a wine that burned brightly in its youth, though recent encounters suggest that maybe it is beginning to flag as it enters what you might call middle age. 2003 | WA 95 The wine is dominated by the hot, dry summer of 2003, showing immense ripeness and a "modern" style, sometimes described as a blend of the 1982 and 1986 styles. 2004 | WS 95 Cassis, cedar, and graphite notes, featuring a medium-bodied, savory structure with well-resolved tannins, currently in its prime drinking window. 2005 | JD 100 It is characterized by intense concentration, powerful tannins, and complex notes of cassis, cedar, and graphite. Now entering its prime, this wine is expected to mature beautifully through 2050+.  2006 | WA 98 Known for its power, depth, and 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, it is widely considered a top performer of the vintage, featuring notes of blackcurrant, cedar, and graphite. 2007 |  WE 95 Medium-bodied, savory, and aromatic with firm tannins, notes of pencil shavings, dark fruits, and a, sometimes, slightly astringent finish. 2008 |  WE 96 Full-bodied, structured, and "sexy" with floral notes, dark chocolate, and a long, fresh finish. 2009 | JD 100 The wine is described as powerful and decadent, featuring, blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and spicy oak notes, with massive, velvety tannins. 2010 | JD 100 This Pauillac first growth displays deep color and complex aromas of blackberry, cassis, cedar, cigar box, and lead pencil. It is characterized by high, ripe tannins, incredible density, and a fresh mineral finish.  2011 | JS 96 A structured, medium-bodied wine with notable acidity, cassis, and graphite notes, often considered a "lighter" but refined 2012 | WE 97 This is a beautifully opulent wine, great Mouton in its richness and succulent fruits. It’s combines structure and obvious new-wood aging with hugely ripe black plum and currant flavors. While it is a pleasure to taste now, there is a great tannic structure in the background to give the sense of power and aging potential. 2014 | JS 99 This wine is a cellaring selection, often praised for its precision and balance rather than being a massive "blockbuster" style, offering great depth and a long finish.  2015 | JS 99 The 2015 vintage displays intense blackcurrant, fig, blackberry, and graphite notes, with a velvety texture and a long, complex finish. It is often described as having incredible symmetry, balancing power with elegance.  2016 | JD 100 Deep purple-hued with notes of cassis, blueberry, violet, and tobacco. 2017 | JS 98 Rich, intense tannins, and fresh, vibrant fruit. Aromas include creme de cassis, violet, and coffee. 2018 | JS 100 Intense notes of blackcurrants, cedarwood, cassis, tobacco, and cocoa, with silky, well-rounded tannins. 2019 | JS 99 This is incredibly complex, with all the cabernet descriptors, from mint and lead pencil to blackberry, blackcurrant and menthol. It changes all the time in the glass, just as in the nose. Yet, it remains cool and classy. 2020 | WE 99 Described as having a "taut and fresh" bouquet with black fruit, cedar, and graphite, offering a more classical and elegant style compared to the 2018 or 2019 vintages. 2021 | D 96 The 2021 vintage brought a return to a more classic, lower-alcohol, high-acid style of Bordeaux compared to recent hot years. It features,, intense, deep ruby color, with aromatic, fresh red and black fruits, and a strong, elegant structure. About Winery Chateau 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%). In 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. In 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. In 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."

Read more less

PRE-ORDER 2011 | WE 90 Medium-bodied, structured, and silky with a focus on red fruits and fresh acidity. 2015 | JD 93 Beautifully ripe, medium to full-bodied personality, bright acidity, and sweet tannin... evolve gracefully for 15-20 years 2017 | WE 92 The palate is medium-bodied with a velvety, smooth entry, highlighting fresh acidity and silky tannins. It displays a more "linear" and "airy" character compared to other vintages, featuring bright red berries and a long, floral finish. 2018 | JS 97 Medium to full-bodied with plush tannins, rich dark fruit, and a strong, fresh, and slightly creamy mineral tension. 2020 | JS 97 The 2020 Nenin is described as having a deep purple color with aromas of black plum, crushed stone, cocoa, and violet. It is intense, powerful, and linear, with racy tannins that require time to soften.  2021 | WA 93 The wine is characterized by dark fruits, smoked butterscotch, graphite, and a "pencil lead" finish, typical of the estate's signature style. About Winery Château Nenin, a Pomerol winery with a history dating back to the 18th century, is known for its premium red wines, particularly those featuring a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Initially owned by the Demay and Paillet families, the estate was later acquired by the Despujol family, who owned it until 1997. In that year, Michel Delon, also owner of Château Léoville Las Cases, purchased the property and initiated significant improvements to the vineyard and facilities, including modernizing the winemaking process. 

Read more less

PRE-ORDER About WineryChâteau Olivier, a historic winery in Bordeaux's Graves region, boasts a history dating back to the 12th century, originally as a Benedictine monastery. It is renowned for both its red and white wines, the latter primarily crafted from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon grapes. The estate has been owned by the Bethmann family since the 19th century, and they continue to manage it today. 

Read more less