A stylish blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a touch of Shiraz and Petit Verdot, from low yielding vineyards have produced another wine of elegance and class. Blackberry, mint and tobacco flavours are framed by fine tannin. The Shiraz adds some supple softness and the Petit Verdot adding aromatic lift. Another triumph!

Château Lanessan continues to be a true bargain in the Bordeaux world. Lanessan produces wines that at first seem firm, but flesh out with marvellous fruit with good richness. Lanessan is also a very consistant producer, creating wines of quality from questionable vintages. The great thing is that you don't have to worry too much about 'questionable' vintage when looking at this superb 2009. The Bordeaux Gods have definitely been smiling on communes and produced wines of utmost concentration and power. Lanessan did not miss out with the licquorice, spice and blackcurrant rich wine that will reward the Bordeaux bargain hunter for the next decade or more.

Perfectly suited to the caterer, Brown Brothers 10L Dry Red is great value.

A stones throw from the famed Chateau Beychevelle, the estate is set in the south of the St Julien appellation and notable for vitality, finesse and elegance. The wine here is produced by Patrick Maroteaux whose increasingly influence is in turn elevating the quality and reputation of these wines.