Bordeaux is virtually guaranteed to throw up something new and interesting every year as there’s probably nowhere that vintage is more important, or unpredictable. After the exalted vintages of 2009 and 2010 – two of the best in decades with corresponding demand – 2011 and 2012 will provide much greater challenges in terms of good quality at an accessible price.
Snap up what you can of 2009 and 2010 but don’t dismiss 2011 just yet, we’ve been quick to grab some early bargains from this much more fickle vintage. These will become much rarer in the next couple of years as demand will inevitably supercede a sense of ‘good value’, driven by an insatiable appetite for this famed region from China and beyond.
Claret fans are already crossing their fingers for a good 2013, but let’s enjoy some great vintages while we have them.
Our picks:
Château Rivensan Bordeaux 2011 (Introductory price €9.59) A real bargain, rich and expressive showing wonderful juicy fruit, with mature, melt-in-the-mouth tannins and lashings of savoury, earthy flavours on a long, smooth finish.
Château Bellevue Gazin Blaye 2009 (Introductory price €11.19) Fresh and fruity with toasty notes underpinning ripe, concentrated fruit, this is exuberant and showy with complex and indulgent aromatics. Beautifully structured on the palate with full fruit and a long, savoury finish.
Château Cambon la Pelouse Haut-Médoc 2007 (Introductory price €18.99) From another challenging vintage, this gem of a find has just hit perfect drinking. Rich, full and expressive with mature, melt-in-the-mouth tannins and lashings of savoury, earthy flavours. Just let it decant for a while first.
See all our wines from Bordeaux here, with 20% off until 30th April.
Comments are closed.