Château Haut-Brion was the one and only estate outside of the Médoc and Sauternes to be bestowed 1st Growth status in the original classification of 1855. That reputation and standing has withstood over 150 years and can be tasted in what can only be described as 'blockbuster' white wine. A blend of 62% Sauvignon Blanc and 38% Semillon, this wine should be held up as the flag-bearer for all Bordeaux Blancs. Mind blowing texture is the trademark of 2009 along with superb flavours and aromas of lemon scented cream, orange skin and a touch of lanolin. The ageing propensity of this wine is not be underestimated and will last in a good cellar for at least 30 years.

Château Lafleur is a tiny 4.5-hectare Pomerol property located opposite Pétrus and producing wines of comparable quality. It is owned and run by Sylvie and Jacques Guinadeau. While the majority of great Bordeaux châteaux have changed hands over the past several generations, Château Lafleur remains in the same family hands to this day. Its vineyards are situated on the gravel-rich Pomerol plateau and adjoin those of La Fleur-Pétrus. The soils here are particularly deep and are enriched by deposits of potassium and iron. Only natural fertilisers are used and yields are painfully low, even by Pomerol standards. Lafleur's wine is typically a blend of Merlot (50%) and Cabernet Franc (50%). It is aged in small oak barrels (50% new) for 18 months. Wines from Lafleur display a spectacularly intense perfume (partly attributable to the high percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend) and display layers and layers of concentrated, black fruits, minerals, tobacco spices and creamy liquorice on the palate. The best vintages can last for up to 50 years.