With one of the longest and most pedigreed histories in the Medoc region, Chateau Leoville-Las-Cases has passed through the hands of some of Frances most notable and wealthiest noble families. Today, the estate is family owned by the Delons, of which brother Jean Hubert and sister Genevieve manage proceedings. Their second wine, Le Petit Lion du Marquis de Las Cases, is a relative newcomer, only having been released for the first time in 2009.

The largest estate in St Emillion, Laroque has been in the Beaumartin family since 1935, but has been completely revitalised and garnered a cult following in the last decade. The vineyards were originally put down in the 18th Century, with the current vines planted in the 1960s. David Suire has taken in the mantle of winemaker with aplomb - his most recent releases being consistently excellent. The property also produces fruit for wines sold as Chateau Peymouton and the estates second wine Les Tours de Laroque.

Clos Cantenac is a small but seductive 6 hectares property made up of four main parcels of vines carefully planted on an exceptional terroir of deep gravels, sand and clay over broken limestone situated close to the prehistoric Megalith de Pierrefitte.

Château Duhart-Milon’s second wine is selected on the same basis as the “Grand Vin”. In general, the grapes are from the younger plots in the vineyard. Moulin de Duhart has several characteristics similar to the grand vin, but with less potential for ageing as its barrel ageing period is shorter. It should be consumed younger than its more robust counterpart. The origin of the name comes from the former presence of a windmill on the Carruades plateau, next to the Duhart-Milon vineyard.

"Haut Bailly II is the second wine of Château Haut-Bailly in the Pessac-Léognan appellation. As the younger sibling of the renowned Château Haut-Bailly, Haut Bailly II encapsulates the estate's commitment to quality and tradition. Situated in the revered Pessac-Léognan terroir, the vineyards are blessed with gravelly soils and an ideal climate, making it conducive to cultivating predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The production of Haut Bailly II mirrors the meticulous attention to detail found in Château Haut-Bailly. However, it is crafted to be approachable and enjoyable at a younger age while still showcasing the elegance and characteristics of its parent estate. The resulting wine exudes flavours of red and black fruits, refined tannins, and a well-balanced structure. Haut Bailly II offers enthusiasts an opportunity to experience a taste of Château Haut-Bailly's legacy, delivering a true essence of the Pessac-Léognan appellation in every glass."

Very deep, dark ruby-red, the wine is practically opaque, with a purple rim. Aromas are of restrained and brooding dark-fruit. Dark-plum and damson fruit combines harmoniously with fresh acidity on the palate. The wine has a milky texture and smooth tannins that are so fine. The structure is of mid-weight, but the soft tannins leave a gap on the finish. Alcohol is well in balance, allowing juicy dark-plum fruit to reassert itself on the long, fresh finish.

2021 is delicate with white flowers that lead into a classic Cabernet-Sauvignon bouquet with aromas of blackcurrant, licorice, and lovely woody notes. The combination is elegant and refined. The attack is ample and fresh, the mouthfeel is taut and thick, wrapped in a pleasing tannic structure. Flavors of blueberry, ripe cherry, cedar, and mild spices joyfully enrich this powerful wine. It lingers at the finish, sappy with hints of licorice candy. Les Griffons de Pichon Baron is one of the second wines of the property. Created since the 2012 vintage, it has a pure and direct character. The grapes which make up this wine's blend come primarily from gravelly plots of land near the Gironde estuary, a good environment for Cabernet-Sauvignon. Les Griffons offers a vigorous and fresh tasting experience, full-bodied and clean, overflowing with energy.

This is Penfolds second French Wine Trial from the storied vineyards of Bordeaux, crafted by blending three of the region's classic varietals – Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot. The palate is vibrant and contemporary with cherry and black fruits, cinnamon and nutmeg notes.