Archive Releases

7 April 2009

Sadly, Bordeaux has already put the breaks on following yesterday's unsuccessful release from Château Angelus. . .

It was a brave move from Hubert/Angelus, which may have actually back-fired on the St-Emilion property as demand for their 2008 was somewhat lacklustre. Few were expecting the wine to fly of the shelf (so to speak) but I don't think the Château received any support from the UK, which is rather sad. As a consequence, we're unlikely to see any other 'major' release until after Easter. Some may even wait until all the major critics have released their report/& scores, which will only prolong this year's campaign. . .

Neal Martin, the British critic who writes for erobertparker.com has released his scores/& tastings notes for the appellations of Pauillac and St Estèphe. There's some very impressive scores with Lafite Rothschild topping the bill with 95-97 points. . .

Also, both Pichon properties have turned out something special in 2008 – Pichon Baron, which we think hasn't performed well in recent years topples all other Pauillac First-Growths with a very impressive score of 94-97. This could be potentially one of the buys of the vintage (if they reduce to 2004 level). And finally, I couldn't leave without mentioning one of my favourites, Château Pontet Canet, which and to put mildly, as been punching well above its fifth growth rating since their illustrious 2005. There is no question that Pontet Canet is right up there with the 'top' second growths however, their pricing remains extremely generous. Neal Martin awards 93-95 points, which is actually one point higher than Château Latour. . .

We've also added a brief vintage overview from James Suckling's and his Dry White Bordeaux and Sauterne & Barsac scores too. . .