When discussing France’s finest red wines, the debate often swings between Bordeaux and Burgundy.
Burgundy frequently dominates the price game, but Bordeaux’s reputation for producing rich, expertly crafted blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot ensures it retains significant prestige. Furthermore, Bordeaux’s offerings often come with a reassuringly more reasonable price tag than its Burgundy counterparts.
A Contextual Comparison
Burgundy’s most exalted wine, the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC), commands an eye-watering price of around USD 23,163. In comparison, Bordeaux’s elite, while far from inexpensive, remains significantly more accessible. The critical acclaim behind these wines also comes with a robust selection process, involving aggregated critic scores that weigh influence and review volume, adding credibility to the rankings.
A Closer Look at the Top Ten by Wine-Searcher:
1. Château Lafleur
- Appellation: Pomerol
- Blend: Merlot and Cabernet Franc
- Critic Score: 97 points
- Price: USD 1,018 (up from USD 804 in 2015)
Château Lafleur is celebrated for its high percentage of Cabernet Franc, which lends a distinct character and exceptional aging potential. Family-owned since 1872, it’s a favorite among critics like Robert Parker.
2. Château Mouton Rothschild
- Appellation: Pauillac
- Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc
- Critic Score: 97 points
- Price: USD 688 (from USD 591 in 2015)
Famed for its artist-designed labels, Château Mouton Rothschild offers a compelling blend of power and refinement. It joined Bordeaux’s First Growth classification in 1973, solidifying its legacy.
3. Petrus
- Appellation: Pomerol
- Blend: 100% Merlot
- Critic Score: 97 points
- Price: USD 4,083 (up from USD 2,657 in 2015)
Known for its limited production and old vines, Petrus offers deep flavors of chocolate and spice. Its prestige has skyrocketed under the stewardship of the Moueix family since the 1960s.
4. Château Margaux
- Appellation: Margaux
- Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc
- Critic Score: 97 points
- Price: USD 733 (up from USD 649 in 2015)
A hallmark of elegance, Château Margaux is a revered First Growth estate with a storied history dating back to Thomas Jefferson’s era.
5. Château Cheval Blanc
- Appellation: Saint-Émilion
- Blend: Cabernet Franc and Merlot
- Critic Score: 97 points
- Price: USD 726 (up from USD 653 in 2015)
Cheval Blanc’s departure from the Premier Grand Cru Classé A ranking in 2022 did little to affect its status as a top-tier wine, celebrated for its Cabernet Franc dominance.
6. Château Ausone
- Appellation: Saint-Émilion
- Blend: Merlot and Cabernet Franc
- Critic Score: 97 points
- Price: USD 723 (down from USD 779 in 2015)
Another Saint-Émilion standout, Château Ausone boasts historical ties to Roman poet Decimius Magnus Ausonius and continues to impress with its high standards.
7. Château Latour
- Appellation: Pauillac
- Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot
- Critic Score: 96 points
- Price: USD 753 (slightly down from USD 765 in 2015)
Renowned for its old-vine Grand Vin, Château Latour’s withdrawal from En Primeur sales in 2012 marked a bold shift, yet its quality remains unshaken.
8. Château Haut-Brion
- Appellation: Pessac-Léognan
- Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc
- Critic Score: 96 points
- Price: USD 616 (up from USD 567 in 2015)
As the oldest First Growth estate, Château Haut-Brion has been producing exceptional wines since the 1530s, beloved by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson.
9. Vieux Château Certain
- Appellation: Pomerol
- Blend: Dominantly Merlot
- Critic Score: 96 points
- Price: USD 302 (up from USD 179 in 2015)
A long-standing contender in Pomerol, Vieux Château Certain delivers exceptional value, making it one of the most affordable wines on the list.
10. Château Lafite Rothschild
- Appellation: Pauillac
- Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc
- Critic Score: 96 points
- Price: USD 887 (down from USD 979 in 2015)
Château Lafite Rothschild’s legacy spans centuries, with a reputation cemented by the Rothschild family since 1868. Its balance of finesse and structure remains unparalleled.
Bordeaux’s Timeless Appeal
Bordeaux’s top wines exemplify balance, craftsmanship, and aging potential. While Burgundy continues to dominate price charts, Bordeaux offers a refined yet accessible alternative for collectors and enthusiasts. Whether for investment or enjoyment, the 2024 vintage highlights the enduring allure of Bordeaux wines.
Source: Wine-Searcher