It’s that time of year again — when Wine-Searcher reveals its annual roundup of the most wanted wines in the world.
A list that inevitably reflects trends, desire, prestige, and purchasing power. And while many expected the usual buzz around Burgundy or the cult favorites of Napa, the data tells a different story: Bordeaux dominates the global wine conversation.
In fact, seven out of the top ten most searched-for wines are from Bordeaux — a powerful rebuttal to those declaring the region’s decline. Yes, Burgundy may command sky-high prices and Napa wines may be media darlings, but when it comes to global demand, Bordeaux still wears the crown.
The Reigning Champion: Château Mouton Rothschild
At the top of the leaderboard is Château Mouton Rothschild, with a commanding aggregate critic score of 96 points. Known for its Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend, Mouton is not just a wine — it’s a cultural artifact. Each vintage is graced with a unique artist-designed label. The 2021 vintage features a poetic design by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota, evoking nature and the seasons. Tasting notes from Wine Enthusiast describe it as "sumptuously smoky" and richly structured, priced at an average of USD 730.
The Eternal Rival: Château Lafite Rothschild
Hot on Mouton’s heels is Château Lafite Rothschild, also scoring 96 points. Owned by a different branch of the Rothschild family, Lafite is equally iconic, revered for its finesse and longevity. The Wine Cellar Insider calls the 2022 vintage a “cornucopia of scents” — from currants and cherries to Cuban cigar wrapper and leather. But this luxury comes at a steeper price: USD 939.
Tuscany’s Crown Jewel: Sassicaia
Third place goes to Tenuta San Guido’s Sassicaia from Bolgheri, Tuscany — a pioneer of the Super Tuscan movement. This Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is elegant, smoky, and precise. The 2020 vintage garnered 95 points, and though it’s Italy’s only representative on this list, it carries its weight with grace. Price: USD 366.
Champagne’s Star: Dom Pérignon Brut
In fourth is the legendary Dom Pérignon Brut, the Champagne that defined luxury fizz. The 2013 vintage (94 points) displays notes of nougat, lime zest, and green apple, with Falstaff highlighting its persistent mousse and golden hue. The average price? USD 282 — a relative steal for such prestige.
The World's Most Wanted Wines on Wine-Searcher:
| Wine Name | Score | Ave Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chateau Mouton Rothschild | 96 | $729 | |
| Chateau Lafite Rothschild | 96 | $939 | |
| Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri | 95 | $366 | |
| Dom Perignon Brut | 94 | $283 | |
| Petrus | 96 | $4239 | |
| Chateau Margaux | 96 | $764 | |
| Chateau Latour | 96 | $790 | |
| Chateau Haut-Brion | 96 | $644 | |
| Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Romanee-Conti Grand Cru | 98 | $23,917 | |
| Chateau d'Yquem | 96 | $474 |
Bordeaux’s Resilience and Relevance
For years, wine commentators have speculated about Bordeaux fatigue, pointing to shifting consumer tastes and rising prices elsewhere. But the data from Wine-Searcher tells a different tale — of enduring desirability, legendary estates, and a global wine public still enamored with the region’s grandeur.
Whether it’s for cellaring, collecting, or conspicuous consumption, Bordeaux continues to define what the world wants in fine wine.
Source: Wine-Searcher