My favorite part of Bordeaux

Last week I had the privilege of tasting the 2022 Bordeaux—now available for pre-order—and once again Pessac-Léognan stole the show. (Click on the hyper links below to buy.)

This is the ONLY region in Bordeaux, in which I put an asterisk next to every single one of the wines I liked, meaning they were all absolute stars:

Pessac-Léognan
*Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion (JS 97-98) $199.99
*Domaine de Chevalier (JS 98-99) $79.99
*Château Haut-Bailly (JS 97-98) $169.99
*Château Malartic-Lagravière (JS 95-96) $49.99
*Château Pape Clément (JS 97-98) $89.99
*Château Smith Haut Lafitte (JS 97-98) $149

(See full list of Bordeaux faves here.)

Here are 6 things you should know about them…

1️⃣ This is a region that does great white and red. Smith Haut Lafitte’s white was STUNNING: elegant and rich with gorgeous minerality. 5% Sauvignon Gris makes it really interesting. Expensive at $172.99, but might be the most beautiful white Bordeaux I’ve ever tasted.

2️⃣ The Malartic-Lagravière is an insane value. 53% CabS, 43% Merlot, with silky tannins. One of the best reds I tried. At $49.99, I am definitely adding this to my cellar to see how it continues to improve with age.

3️⃣ Château Pape Clément was absolutely fabulous and was my favorite among the Pessac reds. Big, beautiful, with nice tobacco notes. This is going to be WILD in 10 years. The majority Merlot here makes it so drinkable. (60%Mer, 40%CabS)

4️⃣ Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion is considered the wine of the vintage. It does not disappoint, but you’ll pay for it: $199.99

5️⃣ Domaine de Chevalier was another favorite that I don’t yet have in my cellar. It has incredible potential. The special anniversary label makes this a collector’s item.

6️⃣ Château Haut-Bailly is one of the coolest châteaux in Bordeaux. Their new state of the art cellar is an architectural masterpiece and well worth a visit. Their 2022 is also a masterpiece. Really beautiful.

🍷Chin!