As the two smallest communal appellations in the Médoc region, after the big four of St-Estéphe, St-Julien, Pauillac and Margaux, Moulis and Listrac may not carry the same name recognition or prestige as their more famous neighbours on Bordeaux’s Left Bank, but these are the places to look for happy, characterful and food-friendly wines at accessible prices (often under or around £20 per bottle).

Scroll down for Georgie Hindle’s pick of 18 wines to try from Moulis & Listrac

See Georgie Hindle’s pick of 18 wines to try from Moulis and Listrac

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The post Expert’s choice: Moulis & Listrac appeared first on Decanter.

Considered one of the region’s greatest-ever vintages, 1982 produced a plentiful crop and a raft of ripe, generous and rich wines that ushered in a new style of ‘rockstar opulence’ for Bordeaux.

It effectively launched the career of the now-famous (and retired) critic Robert M Parker Jr, who opposed leading US wine writers at the time by exuberantly praising the vintage. And it was a vintage that re-energised the Bordeaux en primeur market following a decade of economic gloom, bringing much-needed investment into the vineyards.

Scroll down to see notes and scores for all the 1982 Bordeaux wines tasted

See notes and scores for all the 1982 Bordeaux wines tasted

Some wines in the tasting were faulty or corked so were omitted from this list. 

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The post Bordeaux 1982 revisited: 45 wines tasted appeared first on Decanter.

Corinne Mentzelopoulos has decided to retire from her position as CEO of Chateau Margaux’s holding company after 43 years in charge, and the reins will now be formally passed to the next generation.

Her son, Alexis Leven-Mentzelopoulos, 30, will take over as head of Château Margaux. He joined the Bordeaux first growth in 2020 as business development director, before being appointed deputy general manager in charge of strategy and development in September 2021.

His sister, Alexandra Petit-Mentzelopoulos, will become president of the holding company’s supervisory board. She has spent the past 11 years as part of the estate team, first as brand ambassador, and then deputy managing director of communication and image since 2016.

Decanter jointly spoke to both Alexis and Alexandra about the new structure and what the future holds for Château Margaux.

‘It’s big news of course, after 43 years of management by my mother,’ Leven-Mentzelopoulos said.

‘Château Margaux was her life and her passion, but recently she’s been a bit less hands-on in some ways on a daily basis, and of course one of our objectives from the very beginning was for it to stay in the family.

‘We’re one of the only ones at this level to be owned by so few family members [some wine estates have a large group of extended family members and other parties as shareholders].’

He added, ‘We have a second sister who is not involved but is also a shareholder, so it’s really the continuation of the family business – my mother will in someway stay involved and continue to be aware of what’s going on because she’s passionate about it, and I’ll be happy to tell her the big news that is going on.’

Leven-Mentzelopoulos said there wouldn’t be any significant changes in the immediate future and confirmed that the existing winemaking and technical teams will remain in place.

‘We have our amazing terroir, which of course stays the same, we have a fantastic technical team, which my mother put in place and which we’ll be relying on – all the team will stay the same. The moment is to respect Château Margaux and to continue to produce a great wine each year.

‘Every management is different and every generation sees things a bit differently, so in that respect this will be a change but the passion of Margaux is the same and as for the quality of the wine, we’ll do everything we can to make sure that stays the same.’

‘There’s a lot of pressure…but it’s a dream come true’

When asked if he feels any pressure taking up the helm at such a young age, he replied: ‘There’s a lot of pressure, it’s a huge amount of responsibility, especially when you’re so young, right? I’m 30 years old, but at the same time, even more than some pressure, it’s determination. I’m very motivated and I feel there’s no choice other than to make it work.

‘Château Margaux needs it, the team needs it, every wine lover that loves Château Margaux wants it to continue to work so well, so of course there’s responsibility, I totally realise that. A lot of things are waiting for me, but it’s a dream come true.’

With the estate at the top of its game in terms of prestige, reputation and wine quality, Leven-Mentzelopoulos finds that although it’s perhaps an easier job than it was in the 1980s, there are still modern-day challenges that will need addressing.

‘The big difference between when my mother took over at 27 years old in 1980 was it was at time when Château Margaux was just emerging from the major economical and qualitative crisis – she had a lot more to do in some ways,’ he said.

‘Every generation has its own dilemmas to deal with’

‘When I inherited it today, it could hardly be in a better state – the wines are amazing, financially people are willing to purchase the wines at expensive prices, so in this sense we’re very privileged, but of course there are some new matters and subjects that will have to be put on the table which my mother didn’t have to deal with.’

Leven-Mentzelopoulos highlighted climate change, sustainability, and being more responsible and respectful of the environment and the impact of production.

He also cited the different style of consumers who might be moving away from high-end wines, plus the emergence and expansion of other wine regions around the world, placing Margaux in a more competitive climate; ‘certain topics that didn’t really exist in the 1980s,’ he said.

‘Every generation has its own dilemmas to deal with. I still feel we’re in a more secure environment compared to what my mother had to deal with in 1980. The idea is not to stand on our laurels, it’s always trying to improve and perfect what can be done, and this is what my mother has always been doing.

‘There’s a big difference between on the one hand, respecting the terroir and understanding that this Château has been here for 500 years and that you should definitely not feel that you’re suddenly arriving and know better than all the previous generations. You’re not here to revolutionise anything, but at the same time you cannot just stay the same and say that the wine is great and it will stay that way.

‘So, it’s about finding the balance between inheriting the knowhow and looking upwards and dealing with the present times. Along with my sister, I am firmly committed to continuing the family objective of making Château Margaux one of the greatest wines in the world.’

Speaking about her new role, Alexandra Petit-Mentzelopoulos said: ‘Alexis will be the one in charge on a day-to-day basis, he will be the one hands-on, and this is something I profoundly support. He’s been doing an amazing job over the last few years and has been much more involved than I’ve been.’

Since becoming a mother of two, Petit-Mentzelopoulos has ‘stepped aside a little’, but ‘a love for Margaux’ meant she wanted to stay involved – albeit in not such a 24-7 capacity.

The role will keep her in the company in a supervisory role, ‘giving support and maintaining a family running things together’, she said.

‘If we can hand the next generation an estate in 30 or 35 years which is as qualitative as it is now, it would be a great success,’ Leven-Mentzelopoulos said. His sister added, ‘We’ve been handed something amazing and transmission is definitely the goal.’

In a press statement sent out by the estate, Corinne Mentzelopoulos said: ‘I am deeply proud to see Alexis take over the reins of a company that I have managed for 43 years. It’s a natural progression in this great family adventure. With Alexandra at his side, his human and operational qualities will enable him to meet the challenges of the future and ensure that Château Margaux retains its position.

‘I have every confidence in the future of Château Margaux because I know that he will be able to continue the tradition of excellence that Château Margaux has maintained for five centuries, in a constant quest for progress and innovation.’

Château Margaux’s rise under the Mentzelopoulos family

The first growth estate was acquired by André Mentzelopoulos in 1977 and passed on to his daughter Corinne soon after, following his sudden death in 1980.

By 1986, it was reported that the money invested in the estate was equivalent to the funds used to buy it, some 70 million francs against a purchase price of 72 million francs.

Alongside a programme to replant vines more than 30 years old, famous Bordeaux wine professor and consultant Emile Peynaud worked for Margaux as an oenologist.

Meanwhile, reportedly on Peynaud’s recommendation, talented young winemaker Paul Pontallier had joined the estate in 1983. The Château Margaux 1983 wine went on to enter Decanter’s hall of fame as a Wine Legend.

A 75% stake in Château Margaux was initially sold in the early 1990s to the Agnelli family of Italy, founder of Fiat and owner of Juventus football club, but Corinne Mentzelopoulos retained full management of the first growth.

The Mentzepoulos family kept a minority stake in the property and subsequently repurchased the estate, becoming sole owner in 2003.

At the time, Decanter contributor Stephen Brook wrote: ‘Corinne Mentzelopoulos has been an impeccable custodian of Château Margaux for decades. She and (managing director) Paul Pontallier have created a golden age for this wonderful estate.

‘I expect wine lovers the world over will be delighted that sole ownership is now in her hands. There couldn’t be a better outcome.’

Paul Pontallier, who had become Château Margaux’s MD in 1990, passed away in 2016 aged 59. He spent his career at the first growth, forging a celebrated working partnership with Mentzelopoulos ‘that has never been surpassed, even by that of Jean-Bernard or Jean-Philippe Delmas with Haut-Brion’, said the late, great wine critic Steven Spurrier in a tribute.

He was succeeded as MD by Philippe Bascaules, who had originally been hired by Pontallier in 1990 as estate director, remaining at Château Margaux for 21 years from 1990 until 2011. Bascaules left to run Francis Ford Coppola’s Inglenook Winery in Rutherford, Napa Valley, where he is still director of winemaking alongside his duties at Margaux.

He will continue in that capacity, supporting Leven-Mentzelopoulos, who is based equally between Bordeaux and Paris, and Alexandra, based in Paris.

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The post Alexis Leven-Mentzelopoulos becomes head of Château Margaux appeared first on Decanter.

King Charles and Queen Camilla began their three-day state visit to France in style last night as celebrities, sports stars, authors, winemakers and politicians joined the Royal couple at a state banquet in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles.

Both the King and president Macron addressed the some 160 guests, who included high-profile figures chosen for their contribution to UK-France relations.

Attendees included novelist Ken Follet, French-British actress Charlotte Gainsbourg and British actresses Charlotte Rampling and Kristin Scott Thomas, playwright Sir Christopher Hampton and former French tennis player Amélie Mauresmo.

Bernard Arnault, CEO of French luxury group LVMH, was also present, as was Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger, actor Hugh Grant and former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, as well as retired footballers Didier Drogba and Patrick Vieira.

Wines on the menu at the Versailles banquet for King Charles

Wines served during the lavish Versailles banquet have not been officially confirmed, but French newspaper Le Figaro said they included top bottles from Burgundy, Bordeaux and Champagne.

Ahead of the night, it said three of the wines served would be:

• Pol Roger, Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 2013 was served from magnum
• Olivier Leflaive, Bâtard Montrachet grand cru 2018 from magnum
• Château Mouton Rothschild 2004 from double magnum

Before the banquet, King Charles and Macron were also due to share a toast at presidential residence the Elysée Palace with Champagne Salon 1948, the year of the King’s birth, the paper reported.

There is often meaning attached to wines chosen for such occasions. During his time as Prince of Wales, King Charles himself created a watercolour image that adorns the label of Mouton Rothschild 2004.

The watercolour painting on the Château Mouton Rothschild 2004 label, featuring pine trees on the Cap d’Antibes in southern France. Credit: Château Mouton Rothschild / Baron Philippe de Rothschild SA.

The vintage marks the centenary of the Entente Cordiale between Britain and France, established in 1904.

As a direct relation of King Edward VII, who played a prominent part in the agreement, the Prince of Wales allowed the label of Mouton Rothschild 2004 to be illustrated with one of his watercolours, inspired by a French landscape. He added in his own hand, ‘To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Entente Cordiale – Charles, 2004’.

Famous British prime minister Winston Churchill was known to be a fan of Pol Roger Champagne.

The house’s Sir Winston Churchill 2013 prestige cuvée was recently given 94 points by Decanter’s Champagne correspondent, Tom Hewson, who described it as ‘complex and dynamic’.

The wines reportedly were served alongside a menu created by Michelin-starred chefs Yannick Alléno, Anne-Sophie Pic and Pierre Hermé.

Dishes included blue lobster, Bresse French poultry with mushroom gratin, and concluded with a set of three hand-picked cheeses (two French and one English) before the dessert, Isfahan Persian macaroon, designed by Hermé.

It was reported that the Michelin-starred kitchen maestros finalised their menu before sending it to London for approval. It’s understood that King Charles does not eat foie gras, for example.

The royal couple are now set to meet sports stars playing in this year’s Rugby World Cup, which is hosted by France.

They will then arrive in Bordeaux, home to almost 40,000 Britons, where they will meet UK and French military personnel, meet firefighters involved in last year’s fires, and visit pioneering organic winery Château Smith Haut Lafitte in the Pessac-Léognan appellation.

There is also another banquet planned for the evening of the 22nd, and it’s believed some high-profile Bordeaux winemakers have been invited.

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The post Mouton Rothschild 2004 poured at King Charles Versailles banquet appeared first on Decanter.

La Place de Bordeaux’s September 2023 international releases campaign is underway as France begins its official ‘rentrée’ at the end of the summer holidays.

More than 110 fine wines will be released in the coming weeks, as part of the ‘beyond Bordeaux’ release season run by the city’s famous négociants.

New vintages of historic and vaunted California names will join the best of Chile and Argentina, along with other top wines from around the world and elsewhere in France. Things have developed considerably since Chile’s Almaviva and Napa Valley’s Opus One joined La Place de Bordeaux in 1998 and 2004 respectively.

Scroll down to see the top-scoring Place de Bordeaux September releases for 2023

September releases 2023: Top La Place de Bordeaux launches

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Like Beaune in Burgundy, St-Emilion seems to have more shops selling wine than anything else. A quick Google search reveals 58 different shops in the town alone, ranging in size and offering – some independent and others comprising a commercial empire of between three to 14 outlets all with the same owner. 

Whether you’re looking for Grand Cru Classé bottles from your birth year, wines from estates that no longer exist, or large formats of 3L and above, St-Emilion will have them.

The UNESCO World Heritage site is easily reached from Bordeaux city – roughly 45km away and a 45-minute drive from the airport (Mérignac) or train station (Gare St Jean) or a 30-minute train ride.

St-Emilion wine shops map

In recent years the town, and surrounding wineries, have fully embraced oenotourism, transforming shops and cellars into top tourist destinations.

A large number of estates have opened wine boutiques, and the majority of shops in town offer free daily tastings, sometimes with up to 40 wines open to taste at your leisure.

Many are filled with experienced and knowledgable staff to help you pick out a bottle for a special occasion or memorable keep-sake from the trip. Almost every shop in the town offers shipping around the world and some will let you keep your wine purchases there for the day, or duration of your holiday, to pick up on your way home.

The cobbled streets fill up during the summer time (April-October) with people enjoying outdoor dining terraces, riding electric bikes through the nearby vineyards and sightseeing on the tourist train that ventures into the countryside revealing the history and culture of wine in the region, but the shops stay open all year long. Some close only for Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve so there’s never a wrong time to visit.

Part of the fun is going into a few to see for yourself, but below we’ve highlighted some of our favourites.

Maison du Vin de St Emilion

Situated at the top of town, this is a great place to stop at first. It’s both a wine shop and tourist information centre focused on the region’s wines. There are daily tastings available and a large selection of wines from both well-known and smaller estates on offer, ranging in price from €10.50 to over €1,000.

There is currently a large selection of 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2018 wines as well as some from the neighbouring appellations of Puisseguin St-Emilion and Montagne St-Emilion.

A 2005 Clos Fourtet is listed as €91, 1993 Château Figeac for €261 and Château Ausone 2002 for €1,100.

La Grand Cave

A selection of older bottles and fine-wine boxes inside La Grand Cave

Opposite the historic restaurant L’Envers du Décor, owned by Château Pavie, is La Grand Cave – a large, bright and shiny shop filled with impressive icon bottles from the region including two huge wine fridges full of Left Bank first growths and top estates from the Right Bank.

Be sure to check out the cellar downstairs housing back vintages (see above) – and the oldest wine in stock (currently 1928) – as well as a range of old Burgundies, vintage Champagnes and large-format bottles.

You can also find lots of Armagnac and Cognac here as well as Riedel glasses and decanters.

Vignobles & Châteaux

Credit: Michel Cavalier / Hemis / Alamy Stock Photo

An excellent wine store and négociant business full of large format bottles, Bordeaux white wines and back vintages. At the time of enquiring, the oldest bottle in stock was an 1895 Château Larcis Ducasse (it was previously an 1866 Château d’Yquem, but that was recently enjoyed by the sales team, I was told).

Look out for the ‘recent release’ tag at the bottom of many of the bottles – including a 1958 Clos Fourtet – signifying the bottle has not long come direct from the wine estate’s cellars, guaranteeing perfect provenance. There is also an impressive Petrus vertical from 1981-2019.

It also runs a wine bar on the corner opposite.

Comptoir des Vignobles

A list of years with corresponding available wines

Just down the street, crowds gather to look at the placards outside this shop (above) featuring a list of birth years and the wine in stock. Indeed, when I was in there someone asked for any 1953s and after a quick look through the catalogue there were three different wines from the year.

Inside there’s an almost ‘pot-luck’ wall of wines, many of which are from lesser-known, humble estates from mature vintages dating back to 1959 at great prices.

It also has a great selection of Yquem, a Petrus 1951 for €4,262 and Château Mouton Rothschild 1964 for €2,760.

Marchand de Soif

New bottles available to taste

One of the largest wine shops in the town with a lot of staff and more than 30 open bottles and wines in Enomatic machines to taste.

Prices start as low as €7 up to €7,000 and this carries new labels you may not find elsewhere (the first vintage of Nina Mitjavile’s Pitray, Les Prairies 2020 for instance).

Open 363 days a year, there is a huge selection of top Pomerol wines and a small cellar downstairs filled with older bottles. Some ‘hors Bordeaux wines’ sold via the Place de Bordeaux were also spotted with cases of Bibi Graetz’s Testamatta and Colore on offer.

Bordeaux Classique

This relatively small shop is filled with great bottles from estates that no longer exist including Château L’Arrosée 2011 (last vintage 2012, now part of Château Quintus) and Magdelaine 2001, 2003 and 2010 (last vintage also 2012 becoming subsumed into Château Bélair, now Bélair-Monange).

It has some allocation only bottles from Champagne and Burgundy as well as a huge collection of Darroze Armagnac.

It works with small estates such as La Voûte and can also arrange and accompany winery visits in the region.

Ets Martin

Credit: Nick Maslen / Alamy Stock Photo

Same owner as La Grand Cave, but this has even more gems and underground cellars that can’t be missed. There are two rooms upstairs – the main filled with top labels from the left and right banks including fridges full of first growths – and a second room featuring smaller, local producers and some rare spirits and Champagnes.

The 15th-century cellar houses the older vintages from 1945-2005 as well as an incredible selection of Burgundies and large-format Champagnes.

Further inside, round the corner, you’ll find hidden treasures with drawers full of Petrus, Le Pin, Selosse and DRC as well as several rare Bordeaux cuvées including Château Angélus, Hommage à Elisabeth Bouchet.

The Wine Buff

The tasting room housed inside a limestone cave

Rated as the best wine shop in St-Emilion on several different platforms, owner Paddy O’Flynn and his wife Pilar run one of the most fun, friendly and informative shops in town.

Originally created to promote their large wine shop empire in Ireland, it has become a must-visit destination since opening in 2015. The store is filled with wines ‘they want to drink’ as well as several cuvées they personally select and blend from local estates (two St-Emilion wines, a Pomerol and a Margaux, with plans to increase the range).

The husband and wife team is full of knowledge and enthusiasm for the wines of the region and host courses and classes on wine tasting for novices and experts alike.

Located off the main thoroughfare, the shop features a bar and outdoor terrace.

Badon Boutique

A stunning space at the foot of the Badon Boutique Hotel, owned by local wine magnate and consultant Jean-Luc Thunevin, who also has a négociant business as well as several high-profile wine estates in the region, including Château Valandraud Premier Grand Cru Classé.

There are almost 10 shops owned by Thunevin in St-Emilion – two right next door to each other when you enter the town on Rue Guadet. You can usually spot one by the signage or bottles from the Bad Boy range in the window. The shops focus unsurprisingly on his own properties and branded labels as well as those at which he consults, and there’s a large range of prices with something for everyone.

The Badon Boutique is beautiful, presenting the bottles in custom cabinets like one would in one’s own dream cellar. Tastings are also possible inside.

La Cave du Marché & L’Emilion

These two shops have the same owner with the former (above) stocking a large selection of well-priced wines ‘from great vintages only’, the owner told me.

There were lots of 2000, 2005 and 2009 wines and, as they don’t work with tour operators taking commission, they are able to price the wines more competitively than some of their neighbours – Château Troplong Mondot 2019 was €93.60 for instance.

Les Cordeliers

If you’re craving something other than red wine be sure to visit the UNESCO listed 14th century Les Cordeliers, where AOC Crémant de Bordeaux has been produced for 120 years in St-Emilion.

The vast shop is filled with different cuvées – vintage, white and rosé – as well as gifts and trinkets to buy and take home.

There is also a cloister and garden which can be explored for free and a wine bar where you can purchase picnic hampers filled with regional specialities to enjoy with a glass or bottle of Les Cordeliers in the sunshine.

Guided tours of the winery and underground tunnels are also possible.

Les Caves Nature

If natural, organic and biodynamic wine is what you’re after, then stop here for a large selection of bottles from both Bordeaux and the rest of France. There’s a Bordeaux pét-nat, sparking Cabernet Franc and several amphora-aged wines on offer.

The owner is also a wine consultant for some of the estates.

St-Emilion chateaux that also have wine shops

Credit: Perrogon / Andia / Alamy Stock Photo

Winery shops are also a great source of back-vintages and special bottles.

Château La Dominique: This château is known for its modern architecture and has a dedicated wine shop where you can purchase a large selection of its wines and wine accessories. Their panoramic restaurant La Terrasse Rouge is also worth checking out. 

Château de Pressac: Housing a charming boutique, this château also offers various tasting packages as well as a private tour with cold buffet or hot lunch. 

Château Fonplégade: Known for its picturesque location, this stunning château offers tours, tastings and a beautiful shop selling its wines. 

Château Soutard: This château welcomes visitors to explore both its cellars and tasting room as well as its nature trail. Opt for a full tour, food and wine pairings or a browse in its large shop. 

Other wine tourism options

Château Franc Mayne: Open for tours, tastings, buying wine and even overnight stays in the estate’s 18th century residence, Relais Franc Mayne, this is definitely worth a stop. 

Château La Tour Figeac: This château, close to the town, offers tours and tastings and the possibility of buying wine in-situ.

Château Laniote: Open all year round by appointment, this historic estate offers tours and tastings and a place to buy wines. 

Please keep in mind that the availability of wine shops and visiting experiences can change, so it’s a good idea to verify the current status and offerings of these châteaux before planning a visit. Additionally, asking locals or checking the official websites of these châteaux can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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The post Best wine shops in St-Emilion appeared first on Decanter.

The key dates for wines being released via the Place de Bordeaux in September 2023.

See also

Full report: September fine wine releases on La Place de Bordeaux 2023

Full score table of all 104 wines with tasting notes

Wednesday 30th August

NEW Caro, Mendoza, Argentine, 2021
NEW Château d’Aussières, Corbières AOC, France, 2019

Thursday 31st August

Château Troplong Mondot, Mondot, St-Emilion Grand Cru, France, 2020 (not yet tasted)
NEW Domaine de la Chapelle Rouge, Hermitage AOC, France, 2021
NEW Domaine de la Chapelle Blanc Le Chevalier de Sterimberg, Hermitage AOC, France, 2021
Domaine de Baronarques Rouge, Limoux AOC, France, 2021
Domaine de Baronarques Blanc, Limoux AOC, France, 2021
Capitelle de Baronarques, Limoux AOC, France, 2021

Friday 1st September

Favia Coombsville, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2020 & 2015
Favia Cerro Sur, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2014
Château d’Avize Leclerc Briant, Champagne AOC, France, 2013
La Violeta, Mendoza, Argentina, 2014
Illumination, Napa County Sonoma County, USA, 2022
Quintessa, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2020, 2015 & 2014

Monday 4th September

Opus One 2018 and 2019 limited re-release

Tuesday 5th September

Masseto, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2020
Massetino, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Vin de Constance, Constantia W.O, South Africa, 2020
Clos Apalta, Colchagua, Chile 2020*
Le Petit Clos, Colchagua, Chile 2020*

Wednesday 6th September

Almaviva, Valle Del Maipo D.O., Chile, 2021 (not yet tasted)
Epu, Valle Del Maipo D.O., Chile, 2021 (not yet tasted)

Thursday 7th September

Seña, Valle de Aconcagua D.O., Chile, 2021
Rocas de Seña, Valle de Aconcagua D.O., Chile, 2021
Y d’Yquem, Bordeaux Blanc Sec AOC, France, 2021 (not yet tasted)
Solaia, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2020
Peter Michael, Au Paradis, USA 2020* (not yet tasted)
Peter Michael, Les Pavots, USA 2o20* (not yet tasted)

Friday 8th September

Inglenook Rubicon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2020
Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2020
Inglenook Blancaneaux, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2021 (not yet tasted)
Château de Beaucastel Hommage à Jacques Perrin, Châteauneuf du Pape AOC, France, 2021
Château de Beaucastel Rouge, Châteauneuf du Pape AOC, France, 2021 (not yet tasted)
Château de Beaucastel Blanc, Châteauneuf du Pape AOC, France, 2022 (not yet tasted)
Coudoulet de Beaucastel, Châteauneuf du Pape AOC, France, 2021 (not yet tasted)
Château de Beaucastel Roussanne Vieilles Vignes, Châteauneuf du Pape AOC, France, 2022 (not yet tasted)
Domaine du Clos des Toureilles, Gigondas AOC, France, 2021 (not yet tasted)

Monday 11th September

Bibi Graetz Testamatta, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Bibi Graetz Colore, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Bibi Graetz Testamatta Bianco, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2022
Bibi Graetz Colore Bianco, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2022
Appassionata, Fortissimo, Oregon, USA 2012*
Cloudburst, Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Australia 2020
Cloudburst, Chardonnay, Margaret River, Australia 2021

Tuesday 12th September

Morlet, Cœur de Vallée, Napa Valley, USA 2020
Nicolas Catena Zapata, Mendoza, Argentina, 2020
Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae, Mendoza, Argentina, 2020
Yjar, Rioja DOC, Spain, 2019
NEW Matallana, Ribera del Duero DO, Spain, 2020
NEW Dolio, Ribeira Sacra DO, Spain, 2019
NEW De La Riva, San Cayetano, Vino de Pasto, Spain, 2022
Château Latour, Pauillac 1er Grand Cru Classé, 2011

Wednesday 13th September 

Cheval des Andes, Mendoza, Argentina, 2020
Siepi, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Orma, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Concerto, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Passi di Orma, Bolgheri DOC, Italy, 2021
Caiarossa, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2020
Kracher Grande Cuvée Trockenbeerenauslese Nummer 4, Burgenland, Austria, 2020
NEW Chappellet Signature, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2019, 2014, 2009
NEW Chappellet Pritchard Hill, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2019, 2018, 2013, 2008

Thursday 14th September

Vinedo Chadwick, Puente Alto D.O., Chile, 2021
Beaulieu Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve Georges de Latour, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2020
Petrolo Galatrona, Val d’Arno di Sopra DOC, Italy, 2021
Cobos, Mendoza, Argentina, 2020
NEW Paul Hobbs Cristina’s Signature, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2020

Friday 15th September

Montes Muse, Valle Del Maipo DO, Chile, 2020
NEW La Massa Giorgio Primo, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2019
Viña Maquis, Franco 2019/2013 (not yet tasted)
Vińa Maquis, Viola 2019/2013 (not yet tasted)
Tapias de Marqués de Riscal, Rioja, Spain 2020
La Vigne Aux Gamins, Champagne, France 2011*
Craggy Range, Aroha (Pinot Noir), Martinborough, New Zealand 2021 (not yet tasted)
Craggy Range, Le Sol (Syrah), Hawke’s Bay (Gimblett Gravels), New Zealand 2021 (not yet tasted)

Monday 18th September

Allegrini, Amarone Riserva Fieramonte, Valpolicella, Italy 2016
Allegrini, La Poja, Valpolicella, Italy 2018
NEW Yalumba, Octavius, Barossa Valley, Australia 2018 (not yet tasted)
Santa Rita Casa Real Reserva Especial, Valle Del Maipo D.O., Chile, 2020
Giovanni Rosso Etna Bianco, Etna Rosso DOP, Italy, 2020
Giovanni Rosso Etna Rosso , Etna Bianco DOP, Italy, 2022
Giovanni Rosso Barolo Cerretta, Barolo DOCG Ceretta, Italy, 2019

Tuesday 19th September

Parusso Barolo Bussia Vigna Munie “Oro”, Barolo DOCG Riserva, Italy, 2014
Zuccardi Finca Canal Uco, Mendoza, Argentina, 2020
Domaine de Terrebrune Rouge, Bandol AOC, France, 2020
Domaine de Terrebrune Blanc, Bandol AOC, France, 2022
Domaine de Terrebrune Rosé, Bandol AOC, France, 2022
CVNE, Real de Asua, Rioja, Spain 2020
Jim Barry, The Armagh Shiraz, Clare Valley, Australia 2019

Wednesday 20th September

Pym Rae, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2019
Wynns John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, Australia, 2020
Maya, Napa Valley AVA, USA, 2020
Château Mouton Rothschild, Petit Mouton, 2017/2019 (not yet tasted)

Thursday 21st September

Le Petit Cheval Blanc, Bordeaux AOC, France, 2021 (not yet tasted)
Domaine Chapuis Aloxe Corton, Aloxe Corton AOC, France, 2020
Domaine Chapuis Aloxe Corton 1er Cru, Aloxe Corton Premier Cru AOC, France, 2020
Domaine Chapuis Chorey les Beaune Blanc, Chorey Les Beaune AOC, France, 2020
Domaine Chapuis Corton Charlemagne Blanc, Corton Charlemagne AOC, France, 2020
Domaine Chapuis Corton Languettes Grand Cru, Corton Languettes Grand Cru AOC, France, 2020
Domaine Chapuis Corton Perrières Grand Cru, Corton Perrières AOC, France, 2020
Domaine Chapuis Savigny les Beaune, Savigny les Beaune AOC, France, 2020
Philipponnat Clos des Goisses, Champagne AOC, France, 2014
Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Long Vieillisement, Champagne AOC, France, 1998
Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Les Cintes, Champagne AOC, France, 2012

Monday 25th September

Barons de Rothschild Rare Collection Blanc de Blancs, Champagne AOC, France, 2013
Barons de Rothschild Rare Collection Rosé, Champagne AOC, France, 2013
Bibi Graetz, Colore Bianco, Tuscany, Italy 2022
Bibi Graetz, Testamatta Bianco, Tuscany, Italy 2022

Thursday 28th September

Château Palmer, 3ème Grand Cru Classé Margaux, 2013 (not yet tasted)

Wednesday 4th October

Clos Lanson, Champagne AOC, France, 2008

Also released throughout September:

Oreno, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Sette, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2020
Sant’Antonio Manfro Amarone, Amarone Della Valpolicella DOCG, Italy, 2019
Odyssée, Vin de France, France, 2020
Alberelli di Giodo Rosso, Sicilia DOC, Italy, 2021
Alberelli di Giodo Bianco, Sicilia DOC, Italy, 2022
Giodo la Quinta, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2022
Giodo Brunello di Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Italy, 2019
Petrolo Boggina A, Val d’Arno di Sopra DOC, Italy, 2021
Petrolo Boggina B, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
Petrolo Boggina C, Val d’Arno di Sopra DOC, Italy, 2021
Petrolo Campo Lusso, Val d’Arno di Sopra DOC, Italy, 2021
Petrolo Torrione, Toscana IGT, Italy, 2021
NEW Animardente , Etna DOC, Italy, 2020
NEW Animalucente, Etna DOC, Italy, 2022
NEW Family and Friends Bianco, Terre Siciliane IGP, Italy, 2021
NEW Family and Friends Firraru Bianco, Terre Siciliane IGP, Italy, 2021
NEW Les Héritiers Saint-Génys, Burgundy, France, 2020
NEW La Bouche du Roi – Abondance, Ile de France IGP, France, 2022
NEW La Bouche du Roi – Les Trois Corneilles, Ile de France IGP, France, 2022
NEW La Bouche du Roi – Les Coquilles Rouges, Ile de France IGP, France, 2022
NEW La Bouche du Roi – Grande Vue, Ile de France IGP, France, 2022
NEW La Bouche du Roi – Les Louis d’Or, Ile de France IGP, France, 2022
NEW La Bouche du Roi – Le Grand Lever, Ile de France IGP, France, 2022

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The post Place de Bordeaux September releases 2023 schedule appeared first on Decanter.

Unsurprisingly, Bordeaux is a great place to drink Bordeaux wines, but until recently finding somewhere to serve a selection by the glass, let alone  wines from other regions, was tricky. No longer. 

In the last ten years a young generation of wine loving Bordelais have opened wine bars and relaxed restaurants across the regional capital, serving an eclectic selection of wines in relaxed and often eccentric spaces. Here are some of our favourites.

Le Bar à Vin

• 3 Cours du 30 Juillet
• Monday to Saturday 11:00 – 22:00

What we like about it Le Bar à Vin is a Bordeaux institution, run by the CIVB, the Conseil Interprofessionnel du Vin de Bordeaux, which represents all the appellations of Bordeaux. Located on the ground floor of the triangular 18th century Maison Gobineau, steps away from the Grand Théâtre, it’s one of the largest wine bars in Bordeaux.

Wine list Offered by the glass, the list changes frequently, with a selection across all the  Bordeaux appellations. You’ll find Crémant de Bordeaux, Sauternes, 1855 classed growths and wines from both the Right and Left Banks.

What to order A great place to start a Bordeaux discovery, with some of the best by-the-glass prices and flights in the city. Try the knowledgeable staff recommendations for best wines of the moment.

Enjoy all styles of Bordeaux’s wines at Le Bar à Vin. Credit: Le Bar à Vin

Le Métropolitain

• 49 Cours d’Alsace-et-Lorraine
• Wednesday to Saturday 18:00 – 0:00
• Sunday 18:00 – 23:00

What we like about it A chic family-owned-and-run wine bar in the heart of old Bordeaux. Popular with locals, this is a fun spot where the menu comes clipped to old vinyl records. It can be tough to get a table here without a reservation, so do book ahead.

Wine list The focus is on finding fine wines from all over France and beyond, and the 150 references include New World wines from as far afield as South Africa and Chile.

What to order The red or white blind tasting served in black glasses or sign up for one of their 90 minutes tutored tastings. Try the cheese and charcuterie board, which is served with the family’s delicious homemade marmalade.

Credit: Le Métropolitain

Chez Le Pépère

• 19 rue Georges Bonnac
• Cave: Thursday to Saturday 11:00 – 22:00
• Wine bar : Tuesday to Friday 17:00 – 01:45

What we like about it At Chez Pépère, the owners and patrons are as passionate about rugby as they are about wine. The wine and tapas bar is open from Tuesday to Friday and the jazz cave for live music Thursday through Saturday.

Wine list The list offers a selection of over 200 wines (and over 30 beers) from around France at great prices, thanks to the owner purchasing direct from winemakers. Chez Le Pépère is also an absinthe bar.

What to order Sample their very own L’Absinthe Nitouche, which is distilled locally.

Try Chez Le Pépère’s own absinthe. Credit: Bordeaux Tourism

Vins Urbains

• 27 rue des Bahutiers
• Tuesday to Saturday 18:00 – 23:00

What we like about it On a winding street in the St-Pierre district, Vins Urbains is the creation of sommelier-turned-wine-bar-owner Jan Bussière. This long bar has a grate in the floor, giving its customers a glimpse into the well-stocked vaulted cellar below that is available for private parties.

Wine list The impressive list of 500 bins offers wines from around the world both by the glass and the bottle, along with a selection of magnums.

What to order Step outside of Bordeaux and try wines such as a Cahors Malbec by the glass. Indulge in the white truffle croque-monsieur, which is served sliced into bite-sized sandwiches.

Find Vins Urbains in the St-Pierre district. Credit: Vins Urbains

Max Bordeaux Wine Gallery

• 14 Cours de l’Intendance
• Monday to Saturday 11:00 – 20:00

What we like about it Max Bordeaux, open for over a decade, is another Bordeaux institution. This bar and shop was the first to offer premier grand cru classé wines by the glass. It also offers private workshops, plus events such as wine and jazz evenings, and vertical tastings with château owners.

Wine list There are over 60 wines offered via the Enomatic machines, ranging from €3 to over €100 per glass. Flights of three 2.5cl glasses start at €20 up to €120. They also offer blind and themed tutored tastings.

What to order The selection of top crus classés changes but there’s always a top Bordeaux name to try by the glass. Cheese boards and charcuterie plates are also available.

Bordeaux icon, Max Bordeaux Wine Gallery and Cellar. Credit: Max Bordeaux Wine Gallery and Cellar

Les Trois Pinardiers

• 2 rue Georges Bonnac
• Wednesday to Sunday 17.00 – 00.00
• Saturday 17:00 – 01:00

What we like about it Les Trois Pinardiers was opened by three friends who share a passion for wine. This bar and shop has 100 wines – each available by the glass.

Wine list Just 30 of the wines here are from Bordeaux; most of the rest come from around France, but there’s also a unique range of bottles that you won’t encounter in many other wine bars, from countries including Bulgaria and Israel. All wines are available by the glass, thanks to Coravin.

What to order The wine list changes monthly. This is the place to try interesting wines – from all over the world – that are difficult to find elsewhere in Bordeaux.

Credit: Les Trois Pinardiers

Les Doux Secrets d’Hélène

• 41 rue Neuve
• Seven days a week 18:00 – 02:30
• Lunch Saturday and Sunday

What we like about it  Hidden away just steps from Bordeaux’s Grosse Cloche, Les Doux Secrets d’Hélène is practically a secret itself; it’s not a wine bar you’ll just stumble upon. With the cosy couches, antique sewing machines repurposed as tables, and a massive fireplace, it’s the kind of place you visit for a romantic evening out or for a quiet conversation with friends over wine and gourmet bites.

Wine list Former sommelier Hélène Orhon has curated a list with 300 references mostly from around France, but wines from Croatia, Italy, Chile and South Africa feature too.

What to order Orhon is incredibly knowledgeable and it’s easy to discover lesser-known wines here, with a good selection by the glass and bottle. If it’s early in the week, she’ll be happy to open most bottles to sample by the glass. Try the gourmand pairing for €15, which comes with five different decadent bites crafted with local and seasonal products. The menu changes weekly, and you’ll also find monthly food and wine matching dinners.

Credit: Les Doux Secrets d’Hélène

Le Sobre 

• 24 Quai des Chartons
• Monday 10:00 – 17:00; Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 – 00:00

What we like about it Wine and dine inside and out at this new, trendy wine bar in the heart of the Chartrons – the old négociant centre of Bordeaux. They have an extensive selection of French and international wines to drink in or take away and often showcase visiting winemakers.

Wine list An ever changing selection of 20 wines by the glass thanks to self-service Enomatic machines.

What to order Delicious small plates including Truffle Toasties with a glass of Pomerol.

Credit: Le Sobre

Point Rouge

• 1 Quai de Paludate
• Monday to Saturday 18:00 – 02:00

What we like about it Huge, 500m2 wine bar in the 18th century Chais Decas, underground cellars on the quays, near Pont Saint Jean. 

Wine list As well as a wine list of over 1,000 wines, they serve over 200 creative cocktails and mocktails.

What to order Keep it local with a Bordeluche, a red Bordeaux-based cocktail with rum and the local Marie Brizard anisette, or an upmarket Sauternes Spritz with Gentiane Suze, a drop of honey, Champagne and pure gold flakes.

Credit: Point Rouge

CURRENTLY CLOSED: Tchin Tchin

Tchin Tchin is closed temporarily following a suspected food poisoning outbreak from 4th – 10th September 2023. This listing will be updated when new information is available. 

• 3 rue Emile Duployé
• Monday 15:00 – 22:30; Tuesday to Thursday: 16:00 – 22:30; Friday to Sunday: 15:00 – 22:30

What we like about it French for cheers, Tchin Tchin is a natural wine bar and organic, locavore restaurant near the Place de la Bourse in central Bordeaux. It is the perfect spot for organic, biodynamic and natural wine lovers. Great for plant-based foodies too. Non-veggie options available.

Wine list An eclectic list from Bordeaux (yes there are natural wines in Bordeaux) and further afield with great locavore food and wine pairings, and wine classes.

What to order Try a wine from the Nobody’s Perfect range of organic, single-varietal whites made by Brit, Dawn Jones Cooper in Entre-deux-Mers, all available by the glass.

Credit: Tchin Tchin

Wine More Time 

• 8 rue Saint James
• Monday to Thursday 16:00 – 23:00; Friday 15:00 – 23:30; Saturday 11:00 – 23:30; Sunday  16:00 – 21:30

What we like about it This cosy wine bar on busy rue St-James offers wines from small, independent mainly organic and biodynamic producers, including older vintages. 

Wine list Over 450 wines to take away or taste on site. Bordeaux, Sud-Ouest, Bourgogne, Loire, Rhône, Languedoc-Roussillon, Provence, Corse, Alsace, Jura, Savoie and international wines are all available, and a selection of fine foods, to either take away or make up a platter to eat in.  

What to order A weekly rotation of 20 bottles available by the glass. Follow the advice of in-house somms whether you are looking for a new discovery, a regional classic or something original.

Credit: Wine More Time

Yarra 

• 18 rue Notre Dame
• Wednesday to Friday 16:00 – 22:00
• Saturday 11:00 – 22:00

What we like about it A dynamic Franco-Australian wine bar in trendy rue Notre-Dame with a creative food menu and great selection of international wines, plus outdoor terrace and friendly service.  

Wine list There’s no official wine list, let Albane guide you through the 200 wines on offer from Bordeaux, Australia, South Africa and more. 

What to order Try their own brand of white, red and rosé with Aaron’s seasonal sharing plates, including mini, pulled pork burgers.

Credit: Yarra

Aux Quatre Coins du Vin

• 8 Rue de la Devise
• Monday to Wednesday 18:00 – 01:00; Thursday to Saturday 18:00 – 2:00

What we like about it A team of young somms help you find the perfect wine(s) for the evening. either at a table or propped up at the bar.

Wine list Over 800 wines from around the world and across France from well and lesser-known producers that they’ve been searching out over the last eight years.

What to order Choose from 40 wines served by the glass, from 3cl à 12cl, served with the local duck charcuterie.

Credit: Aux Quatre Coins du Vin

Avant Comptoir du Palais 

• 2 place du Palais 
• Open s days a week 12:00 – 23:00

What we like about it The 4th ‘comptoir’ from chef Yves Camedeborde and the first outside  Paris. Look up to see the 60-70 tapas suggestions suspended from the ceiling. 

Wine list Large fridges line the walls to keep the 1 000 wines at the perfect serving temperature. 

What to order You can taste before you buy with wines start at €3.50 per glass.

Credit: Avant Comptoir du Palais

Consonance 

• 19 rue de la Devise 
• Wednesday to Sunday 18:00 – 01:00

What we like about it Five wine-loving friends, some in the wine business,  grouped together to create a wine bar where the sommelier Hugo and chef Clara are in charge. The bar is at the very centre of the action.

Wine list 300 wines from France and elsewhere sold at retail prices, and an eclectic choice of 20 wines by the glass.  

What to order. Sharing plates that you don’t have to share with a glass of Château Sigalas Rabaud, 1er cru classé of Sauternes.

Clara & Hugo at Consonance. Credit: Consonance

Oenolimit 

• 2 rue des Ayres.
• Tuesday to Saturday 13:00 – 01:00

Why we like it Busy relaxed atmosphere popular with the locals. 

Wine list Wines to take away or taste by the glass with cheese and platters.  

What to order Chat to the friendly waitstaff to find out their current favourites.

Credit: l’oenolimit

Out of town

Wine bars are springing up across the region, what better place to taste by the glass than straight from the cellar? Even more so when there’s a great range to choose from and food to go with them.

Right Bank

Château Fleur de Lisse, Saint Emilion

• Monday to Friday 10:00 – 18:00 all year; Saturdays from March to mid-October

Owners of Château La Loubière in the Entre-deux-Mers since 1837, in 2015, the Teycheney family also invested in Saint Emilion, buying Château Fleur de Lisse and Château L’Etampe.  In 2018, they added Château Fontfleurie. You can taste the full range, along with light bites at the beautifully renovated Château Fleur de Lisse inside their wine bar or on the terrace.

Château Fleur de Lisse. Credit: Vignobles Jade

Château George 7, Fronsac 

1 Le Bergey, 33141 Saillans

• Open everyday, for lunch and evenings until sunset by appointment 

In Fronsac, Château George 7 has the best terrace for a sunset apéro with views across the vines of the appellation. As well as owner-winemaker Sally Evans’ Fronsac red and Bordeaux white wines, Sally serves the neighbours’ rosé and Bordeaux Crémant with her homemade tasting platters. Vegetarian dishes are a specialty. Open lunchtime and evening. Booking essential.

Sunset at Château George 7. Credit: Teralon Media

La Fleur de Bouard, Lalande-de-Pomerol 

• Lunchtimes Monday to Saturday. By appointment in the evening.

Les chais de la Fleur Château Fleur de Bouard opened a new wine bar and restaurant this year, serving their Lalande-de-Pomerol wines but also their 100% Syrah, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay Vin du Pays de l’Atlantique wines; Château Tour du Pas Saint Georges and Bordeaux Supérieur Château du Rosaire, all served with delicious local specialties including oysters from the Arcachon Bay.

Credit: La Fleur de Bouard

Left Bank

Les Clés du Vin at Château Pape Clement

• Monday to Saturday 10:00 – 19:00; Sunday 10:00 – 18:00

On the outskirts of Bordeaux in Pessac, classified growth Château Pape Clement has always welcomed visitors. but you don’t have to participate in a tour to taste the wines from the Bernard Magrez range. The Les Clés du Vin wine bar and shop offers the full range of over 300 wines. It’s very cool décor is from a  19th century pharmacy, perfectly adapted to bottle storage.

​The wine bar offers pairings of wine and tapas, all introduced and explained by a team of experts. There are flights, including the top classified growths, and themed workshops.

Cles du Vin Pape Clement. Credit: Château Pape Clement

Rouge 

Source de Caudalie, Martillac

• Open every day 10:00 – 22:00

Rouge is the gourmet grocery and wine shop of Les Sources de Caudalie in the vineyard of Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Open for coffee and croissants in the morning, then wine tastings at the bar or on the sunny terrace with light tapas style snacks for all day dining.

As well as the family’s wines, there’s a large selection of regional and French wines to enjoy there or take away. Flights of three wines from the family estate are served from 3pm to 6pm by the sommeliers, who are happy to share the family philosophy.

Rouge at Source de Caudalie. Credit: Château Smith Haut Lafitte

Entre-deux-Mers

La Salle à Manger 

18, place Robert Darniche, 33580, Monségur

• Lunch Tuesday and Friday;  Evening Monday to Friday 

Under the arches of the beautiful ‘bastide’ town square of Monségur, La Salle a Manger is half of the Epicierie Central grocery. Friday is market day so be sure to book. Eat inside or under the arches of the square. Choose your wine from the shelves of the shop to match their freshly prepared local food. Don’t miss the truffle pizza!

Credit: La Salle a Manger

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The post Ten top Bordeaux wine bars appeared first on Decanter.

When was the last time you opened a bottle of sweet Sauternes? Perhaps Christmas, or maybe with some cheese at a dinner party? Have you one in the fridge, ready to enjoy as and when the weather warms? I hope the answer’s yes, but the likelihood is it’s not.

As consumer tastes and preferences shift towards drier and lighter wines at lower alcohol levels and less sweetness, in recent years, bottles of Sauternes have unfortunately been relegated to the confines of dusty cellars or (wrongly, in my opinion) opened solely at the end of meals. But, as the saying goes, ‘necessity is the mother of invention’, and Sauternes producers are now finding opportunities for diversification and market demand for their growing number of terroir-influenced dry white styles.

Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for 18 dry white wines from Sauternes to seek out

Taste of the future: 18 dry Sauternes whites to try

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With 34 Louis Roederer harvests under his belt, Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon is perfectly positioned to talk about the estate’s developments and shift in farming practises over the past few decades but far from being bored or lackadaisical he remains as passionate and ‘excited as ever’ about crafting Champagne and ensuring the future of this prestigious House.

During the 90-minute masterclass, Champagne lovers were treated to eight wines that showcased both the individual terroirs and climates of Champagne combined with the stylistic principles – and new direction – of Louis Roederer.

• Collection 243 NV
• Vintage 2015
• Vintage Rosé 2016
• Blanc de Blancs 2015
• Cristal 2014
• Cristal 2008
• Cristal 2002
• Cristal Rosé 2012

Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for all eight Louis Roederer Champagnes in the Decanter masterclass

Detailing the micro-, meso- and even nano- climates available in the region – and why they matter – Lécaillon spoke emphatically and effusively about what he believes makes Champagne the best white wine terroir in the world, why all Louis Roederer vintage Champagnes are made from vineyards they own, the importance of biodynamics and the particularities of their revered Cristal bottlings.

Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon leading the Louis Roederer masterclass in New York

Starting out

See tasting notes and scores for all eight Louis Roederer Champagnes in the masterclass

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It’s not often a Bordeaux first growth releases a new wine. Indeed, you’d have to go back more than 100 years to the end of the 19th century, when Château Lafite Rothschild created its second wine – formally settling on the name Carruades in the 1980s. So the unveiling of Anseillan was bound to get people talking.

Not technically a ‘new wine’ as such, as the 12ha ‘Anseillan’ vineyard zone that can be used for production has been an integral part of the wider Lafite estate since it was purchased, along with the adjoining 16th-century hamlet of the same name (that also features on the strikingly modern label), by Baron Elie de Rothschild in 1970.

Scroll down to see scores and tasting notes from the first Anseillan vintages

Anseillan: the first vintages

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Georgie Hindle, Vincenzo Arnese and Arthur Coggill tasted 59 wines with 11 Outstanding and 41 Highly recommended.

St-Emilion GCC 2016: Panel tasting scores

59 wines tasted

Exceptional 0

Outstanding 11

Highly recommended 41

Recommended 7

Commended 0

Fair 0

Poor 0

Entry criteria: producers and UK agents were invited to submit 2016-vintage wines from St-Emilion at the grand cru classé and premier grand cru classé A and B levels according to the official Classification of 2012. Second wines (grand cru) of the property were also permitted.

Even having anticipated good results from one of the most highly regarded vintages in Bordeaux over the last two decades, all the judges summarised this as an ‘incredible tasting’ with ‘no bad wines’ among those tasted. It’s a testament to the confidence of estates (and their regard for Decanter’s tasting process) that they were happy to send their critically acclaimed, and in some cases extremely expensive wines to be judged blind for one of our panel tastings, and I am so grateful to them that they did.

Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores from the St-Emilion GCC 2016 panel tasting

St-Emilion GCC 2016 panel tasting scores

The judges

Georgie Hindle is Decanter’s regional editor for Bordeaux and Burgundy, and editor of Decanter Premium online. She lives in Bordeaux.

Vincenzo Arnese is the newly appointed director of wine at Raffles London at the OWO. Born in Naples, he specialised in sommellerie at hospitality school, then worked at top hotels in Italy, Switzerland and Australia, as well as in London at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester.

Arthur Coggill is associate director and fine wine buyer at Goedhuis & Co, Decanter Retailer Awards 2022 Bordeaux Specialist winner. He started in wine at Majestic before moving into fine wine trading in 2010, joining Goedhuis & Co in 2013 and running its sister investment fund Vintage Capital for eight years, before moving solely to buying in 2021.

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Pessac-Léognan & Graves 2022

Average yield:

• Average yield for both Pessac & Graves was 35.7hl/ha in 2022, -7.3% relative to the 10-year average of 38.5hl/ha.
• Pessac-Léognan 2022 yield was 35.7hl/ha. Slightly higher than the 2021 yield of 33.2hl/ha which was a decrease of 3% from 2020.
• Graves 2022 yield was 41.1hl/ha – much higher than the 2021 yield of 23.7hl/ha which was a decrease of 38% from 2020.

Rainfall during the vintage in mm and % relative to the 10 year average

• Pre-budburst (Nov-March) 445mm (-8.4%)
• Véraison to harvest (August-October) 57.7mm (-50.7%).
• Total: 764.4mm (-14.6%)

What you find from the 2022 wines

See the top-scoring Pessac-Léognan & Graves 2022 en primeur wines

Search all Bordeaux 2022 en primeur ratings published so far

Back to the main Bordeaux en primeur page

The post Best Pessac-Leognan & Graves 2022 wines tasted en primeur appeared first on Decanter.

Margaux 2022

Average yield:

• Average yield 31.3hl/ha, -21.2% relative to the 10-year average of 39.7hl/ha.
• In 2021 the yield was 38.6hl/ha. An increase of 8% from 2020.

Rainfall during the vintage in mm and % relative to the 10 year average

• Pre-budburst (Nov-March) 380.9mm (-22.8%)
• Véraison to harvest (August-October) 58.5mm (-53.0%).
• Total: 801.7mm (-12.3%)

What you find from the 2022 wines

See the top-scoring Margaux 2022 en primeur wines

Search all Bordeaux 2022 en primeur ratings published so far

Back to the main Bordeaux en primeur page

The post Best Margaux 2022 wines tasted en primeur appeared first on Decanter.

Dry white Bordeaux 2022

Average yields:

• • Bordeaux Blanc: 42.3hl/ha up slightly from 41.2hl/ha in 2021 which was a decrease of 12% from 2020.
  • Pessac-Léognan white: 31.5hl/ha down from 38.6hl/ha in 2021 which was a decrease of 18% from 2020.
  • Graves white: 35hl/ha, up from 30.0hl/ha in 2021 which was a decrease of 24% from 2020.
  • Entre-deux-Mers: 43hl/ha,

What you find from the 2022 wines

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St-Estèphe 2022

Average yield:

• Average yield 31.5hl/ha, -27.4% relative to the 10-year average of 43.4hl/ha.
• Yield in 2021 40.7hl/ha. A decrease of 3% from 2020.

Rainfall during the vintage in mm and % relative to the 10 year average:

• Pre-budburst (Nov-March) 415mm (-14.6%)
• Véraison to harvest (August-October) 74.4mm (-40.3%).
• Total: 889.3mm (-1.1%)

What you find from the 2021 wines

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The post Best St-Estephe 2022 wines tasted en primeur appeared first on Decanter.

 Sauternes & Barsac 2022

Average yield:

• • Sauternes: 4hl/ha. A decrease of 71% from 2020.
  • Barsac: 1.5hl/ha. A decrease of 86% from 2020.

What you find from the 2022 wines

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St-Julien 2022

Average yield:

• • • Average yield 34.3hl/ha, -14.5% relative to the 10-year average of 40.1hl/ha.
    • Yield in 2021 35.2hl/ha, an increase of 2% from 2020.

Rainfall during the vintage in mm and % relative to the 10 year average:

• Pre-budburst (Nov-March) 364mm (-25.0%)
• Véraison to harvest (August-October) 61.3mm (-47.7%).
• Total: 780.2mm (-12.2%)

What you find from the 2022 wines

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St-Emilion 2022

Average yield:

• Average yield 41.2hl/ha, +10.7% relative to the 10-year average of 37.2hl/ha.
• Yield in 2021 27.9hl/ha which was a decrease of 30% from 2020.

Rainfall during the vintage in mm and % relative to the 10 year average:

• Pre-budburst (Nov-March) 558mm (+14.8%)
• Véraison to harvest (August-October) 67.7mm (-44.0%).
• Total: 886.1mm (-1.9%)

What you find from the 2022 wines

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Pauillac 2022

Average yield:

• Average yield 34.8hl/ha, -27.4% relative to the 10-year average of 39.7hl/ha.

Rainfall during the vintage in mm and % relative to the 10 year average:

• Pre-budburst (Nov-March) 364mm (-25.0%)
• Véraison to harvest (August-October) 61.3mm (-47.7%).
• Total: 780.2mm (-12.2%)

What you find from the 2022 wines

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The post Best Pauillac 2022 wines tasted en primeur appeared first on Decanter.