Chateau Lafite Rothchild
Chateau Lafite Rothschild is one of the most renowned properties in the Médoc. Owned by Baron Eric de Rothschild and located in the north of the Pauillac appellation, Lafite Rothschild is also one of the largest Médoc estates. It has 95 hectares of vineyards planted with Cabernet Sauvignon (70%), Merlot (20%) and Cabernet Franc (10%). Lafite Rothschild's vineyards lie on deep gravel beds (up to 5 metres thick) over marl and limestone. Of all the Médoc Grand Crus, Lafite Rothschild can be the most beguiling and difficult to understand. It is never the most powerful, yet, along with Margaux, possesses the most exquisite bouquet of any Médoc wine. It has the elegance, balance and harmony that epitomises claret at its very best.
Domaine Comte Georges de Vogue Grand Cru Cuvee Vieilles Vignes
Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé Grand Cru Cuvée Vieilles Vignes Musigny De Vogüé and Musigny are synonymous. This the Domaines prized selection of old vines, the youngest of which are 40 years old, from their 7.2ha of the fabled Musigny. The vines are tended using organic principles, however, the Domaine does not hold an organic certification. Less than 1000 cases are produced in any vintage.
Château Cheval-Blanc
Tenuta Dell'ornellaia Masseto
Domaine Comte Georges de Vogue Grand Cru
One of the two Grand Crus from this iconic Domain, this one the wilder of the family. The soils here are on gentler slopes, (less well-drained, less quickly warmed by the sun) than their stablemates. This lends the Bonnes-Mares a distinctive individuality in the portfolio. It is more purple, rather than ruby, and takes its energy from structure, rather than minerality. It's "unconventional and free-thinking says vigneron Eric Bourgogne.
Château Ausone
Laurent Ponsot Grand Cru Cuvée du Cèdre
Cuvée du Cèdre Clos de Vougeot A blend of fruit from propitiously situated plots, sourced from six different growers, across the largest of all of Burgundys Grand Crus. Intentionally, some are prime real estate, directly behind the château; others, on the lower ebbs of the vineyard. Ponsot sees this as a balancing act. A wealth of black cherry, red currant and plum liqueur, framed by the Clos earthenware tannins. A wine that is consistently rated frumps by the worlds eminent Burgundy commentators, this will only grow in stature with extended patience.
MAISON LEROY
Penfolds II Dourthe Cabernet Merlot, South Australia, Bordeaux
Torbreck RunRig Shiraz
The flagship of the Torbreck stable. Recently been elevated to 'Exceptional' status in Langton's Fine Wine Classification, it is a wine of utmost power and density. Famous for rich concentration and opulent power, this exceptional Australian Shiraz is as popular abroad as it is at home. Definitely one to place in the cellar and simply forget about - let the patience reward you over 10 or more years time.