This afternoon we see the release of the first 2007 claret we have recommended, Chateau Kirwan, the 3rd Growth property in Margaux. Kirwan has always been good value - this is the first vintage by Chateau Palmer's former Director of Production, Philippe Delfaut, and his experience shows. It is undoubtedly one of the strongest performances to come out of Margaux this year gaining a very respectable 89-92 points from Robert Parker and 89 points from us with the tasting note:"40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot. Plenty of ripe, berry fruit at the front, then elegant, medium-bodied concentration of blackcurrant fruit that rolls over the palate into a mid-length finish with mild tannins. Drink from 2011."
Chateau Kirwan, 3rd Growth, Margaux @ £255.00 /cs IB
To say Bordeaux is market sensitive would be a huge exaggeration. Also out today is the sublime wine of Chateau de Fargues. Undoubtedly one of the star performances of this great Sauternes vintage (it is quite stunning!), however it is undeniably expensive, even for a property owned by Chateau d'Yquem. It has great scores from the critics and our tastingnote reads"80% Semillon, 20% Sauvignon. Muted nose. Really rich botrytis (almost like caramel), thick texture and lovely cloying fruit that just goes on and on. This wine really is spectacular."
Chateau de Fargues, Sauternes
12 x 75cl @ £750.00 /cs IB
24 x 37.5cl @ £750.00 /cs IB
Wines released recently that we recommend include:
Chateau Doisy-Vedrines, 2eme Cru, Sauternes @ £210/cs
"Château Doisy-Védrines 2007 is perhaps the real over-achiever" (94-96pts.NM)
Chateau Rieussec,1er Cru, Sauternes @ £515/cs
"Has to be one of the best wines of the year." HHB. (19/20,JR)
Chateau La Tour Blanche,1er Cru, Sauternes @ £350/cs
"Beautiful balance and intensity. Excellent length and finish." HHB (90-93pts.WS)