Finding exceptional value in Bordeaux wines requires a delicate balance of quality and affordability.
This list highlights the top Bordeaux wines that not only deliver impressive critic scores but also come with price tags under USD 50.
To determine value, we assess wines based on their critic reviews and price, calculating how many times the price fits within the critic score. With an emphasis on availability in the US, this guide provides a snapshot of Bordeaux’s best value wines for this year.
Top Value Bordeaux Wines by Wine-Searcher:
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2023 Château Montlandrie – Value Factor: 4.18 Produced by Denis Durantou's winery, now run by his family, Château Montlandrie from Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux is Merlot-dominant with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. With an aggregated score of 92 points and a price of USD 22, it ranks highest for value.
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2023 Château Tronquoy – Value Factor: 3.68 Formerly known as Château Tronquoy Lalande in Saint-Estèphe, this estate uses a significant amount of Merlot. With a score of 92 points and a USD 25 price, it offers great value and glowing reviews for its aromatic complexity and vibrant core of red fruit.
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2023 Château Barde-Haut – Value Factor: 2.76 A Right Bank gem, this estate is run by Patrice Lévèque and Hélène Garcin. The Merlot-dominant wine, aged in new French oak, has a score of 94 points and costs USD 34. Its rich, concentrated fruit and unique vineyard conditions make it a standout.
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2022 Château Laroque – Value Factor: 2.58 A Grand Cru Classé estate from Saint-Émilion, known for its 40-year-old vines, Château Laroque 2022 scored 93 points. Described as perfectly balanced and elegant, it costs USD 36 and offers exceptional value.
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2022 Château Barde-Haut – Value Factor: 2.51 Another entry from Château Barde-Haut, the 2022 vintage has a score of 93 points. With tasting notes of black raspberries and a touch of salty rocks, it costs USD 37.
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2022 Château Sociando-Mallet – Value Factor: 2.38 From the Left Bank's Médoc, this estate's 2022 vintage, with a score of 93 points, costs USD 39. Known for its full-bodied, classic wines, Château Sociando-Mallet continues to impress under the guidance of Jean Gautreau’s daughter Sylvie.
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2023 Château Fleur Cardinale – Value Factor: 2.32 Owned by Florence and Dominique Decoster, this Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé estate is undergoing a rebrand. With a score of 93 points and a price of USD 40, it offers solid value.
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2019 Château Laroque – Value Factor: 2.32 Praised for its rich, lush character and high scoring potential, this vintage has a score of 93 points and costs USD 40. It’s recognized as one of the best-priced wines in Bordeaux.
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2018 Château Laroque – Value Factor: 2.24 This vintage is known for its smooth texture and concentration. With a score of 92 points and a USD 43 price, it promises a future of refined flavors.
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2023 Château Lagrange – Value Factor: 2.13 From Saint-Julien, ranked a third growth in the 1855 Classification, this estate embraces modern marketing while maintaining high quality. The 2023 vintage scores 94 points and costs USD 44, balancing tradition with value.
Conclusion
This year's best value Bordeaux wines offer an impressive lineup, with Château Laroque standing out by securing three spots on the list. These selections showcase a blend of affordability and high quality, providing exceptional value for wine enthusiasts.
Source: Wine-Searcher