La Dominique is a Grand Cru Classe growth of Saint-Émillion, leading the way in many fields of modernisation and innovation amongst the chateaux of Bordeaux. Owner Clement Fayat has spent decades on improving everything from vinification facilities, to drainage, to the cellars, to a bright red (and controversially visible from a distance) vat house completed in 2013. Benefitting (similarly to their famous neighbours, Ch. Cheval Blanc) from a proximity to Pomerol, La Dominique produces Merlot-led wines that combine vigour and elegance.

Having been through many iterations since its establishment in the early 17th century, what we know today as Chateau Brane Cantenac has well and truly settled into itself and become something extraordinary. Taking its name from the man knows as the Napoleon of the Vineyards, the Baron of Brane, who purchased it in 1833, the chateau has passed through several hands, finally coming to rest in the hands of Lucien Lurton in 1956. Under the Lurton family large portions of the vineyard were replanted, vine densities increased, drainage systems improved and the plantings evolved into their current varietals. The 2016 release has garnered a huge response from critics, with James Suckling naming it one of the best ever from the chateau, and Jancis Robinson praising its Cool, unforced and sophisticated delivery as Very competent indeed.

Chateau Branaire-Ducru is a fourth growth (4ème Cru Classé) St-Julien estate, in the southern area of the appellation. The Grand Vin has a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon between 80-85% in most years; one of the highest in the Médoc. The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a three week post fermentation maceration to build tannin structure before the wine is matured in 60-65% new French oak barriques for 16-20 months. Branaire-Ducru is renowned for producing classic claret wines that are elegant, ripe and well balanced.