Under the Radar and Over-Delivering Finds from Bordeaux

I’ll be the first to admit—with all the tumult in the wine industry these days, it’s been a bit more than an uphill battle to restock our shelves. That said, I’m absolutely thrilled with some of our current selections, from everyday values to top collectibles. Here are a few finds that you won’t want to miss, and some of the stories behind them. 

First up is 2022 Grand Village Rouge, Bordeaux Supérieur $27.99 94JD 94WA, a Bordeaux Supérieur that has a few things going for it, including a sub-$30 price, the great 2022 vintage, and dual 94-point scores. Also, it happens to be made by the team at Lafleur. This isn’t their Grand Vin, but the care and attention that goes into it shows in volumes at this kind of price, a serious red that I wouldn’t hesitate to have in my decanter tomorrow, but might very well be a 20+ year wine. 

For those looking for one of the most exciting projects in Bordeaux, Laroque is a must-know name. The 2020 Laroque, St-Emilion $39.99 97TWI 96VN 95JA 95JD is simply stunning—a polished, precise, and superbly refined Right Bank gem that is simply irresistible. While, in general, I’ve been more of a fan of 2019 over 2020, I’m beginning to second guess myself when it comes to the Right Bank, as wines of this caliber are speaking volumes, even at this early stage. 

We also have a gem from one of my favorite producers in stock right now—2018 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge, Pessac-Léognan $84.99 99JS 97JD 97VN 97WE 96WS 95DC 95TWI. 2018 is bit of a divisive vintage, but those that really hit the mark were able to create something special. Such is the case with this “DDC,” one that tempted a few reviewers with triple digit scores during En Primeur, and has continued to operate at a high level on release. It has a bit of everything, from wonderful typicity to gorgeous fruit and structure, all at a remarkable price considering the property and caliber. 

For those that want a piece of history, check out 2009 Magdelaine, St-Emilion $189.99 97JA. This vineyard is sandwiched in between Ausone and Canon on the limestone plateau of St-Emilion, one of the most singular spots to grow wine in all the world. It is now part of Belair-Monange (which is also making some incredible wines these days) but is also garnering a cult following in recent years for how deftly the terroir shines through. Recently Jane Anson did a comprehensive vertical of the estate under the Magdelaine label, and this 2009 ranked at the top. But perhaps more impactful was a recent tasting where it brought a smile to one of St-Emilion’s top producers, marveling at the character and depth of this site is expressed with such remarkable clarity. 

Alongside these favorites, I’ve curated a list of wines that I think any Bordeaux enthusiast, or collector of the world’s finest wines, shouldn’t miss. They all convey a wonderful sense of place, from some of the region’s top growing seasons, and producers that are all at top form in these bottlings. Bordeaux continues to amaze, and the magic of the terroir, people, and place is fully on display with these collectibles. 

2016 Tronquoy-Lalande, St-Estèphe $36.99 94WA

2019 Branaire-Ducru, St-Julien $54.99 94-96JD 94-96WE 95DC 95WA 95VN

2019 Canon, St-Émilion $144.99 100JA 100TWI 98JD 98VN 97DC 97IWR 97JS 97WA 95WS

2020 Canon, St-Emilion $199.99 100JA 100WA 100VN 99DC 99TWI 98JS 97JD

2019 Lynch-Bages, Pauillac (1.5L) $299.99 100JD 99VN 97DC 97JS 96RP 96WS 

2010 Trotanoy, Pomerol $379.99 98DC 98JS 98WS 97WA 96VN 96WE 

2016 La Mission Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan $379.99 99TW 99VN 98JD 97JS 97WS 96DC 96WE

2022 Lafleur, Pomerol $1,199.99 100JS 100WA 98-100JA 99VN 98DC 96-98JD 96-98TWI


- Ryan Moses, K&L Bordeaux Buyer