The Chateau Notton 1990 from Margaux, Bordeaux, France is a true representation of the exceptional terroir and winemaking techniques of the region. This vintage, produced in 1990, showcases the unique characteristics of this renowned chateau. On the nose, aromas of ripe blackcurrants, dark cherries, and hints of tobacco and cedarwood entice the senses. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a velvety texture and well-integrated tannins. Flavors of blackberries, plums, and a touch of vanilla linger on the finish. The deep, ruby color of the wine is a testament to its age and elegance. This Chateau Notton 1990 is a prime example of the quality and complexity that can be achieved in Bordeaux wines, making it a must-try for any wine enthusiast.

The Chateau Martinens 2002 from Margaux, Bordeaux, France is a stunning representation of the region's terroir and the winemaking expertise of this renowned estate. Upon opening, the wine reveals a deep garnet hue with hints of brick red on the rim. The nose is immediately greeted by a bouquet of blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry, accompanied by subtle notes of cedar, tobacco, and leather. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a velvety texture and fine, silky tannins. Flavors of ripe black fruits, such as blackberry and blackcurrant, are interlaced with earthy undertones and a touch of spice, creating a complex and harmonious flavor profile. The finish is long and elegant, leaving a lingering hint of dark chocolate. This 2002 vintage from Chateau Martinens is a true testament to the quality and tradition of Bordeaux winemaking.

The Chateau La Douys 1970 is a magnificent Bordeaux wine that exudes an air of elegance and sophistication. Its deep ruby red color alludes to the richness and complexity that awaits on the palate. On the nose, this wine offers a bouquet of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and a hint of tobacco. As it opens up, notes of dried herbs and cedar emerge, adding a subtle earthiness to the aroma. On the palate, the Chateau La Douys 1970 is a full-bodied wine with a velvety texture and well-integrated tannins. Flavors of blackberry, plum, and blackcurrant are complemented by a touch of spice and a lingering oak finish. This vintage, produced by the renowned Chateau Lillian Ladouys, showcases the true potential of Bordeaux wines from 1970. A true delight for the senses, this wine is a testament to the art of winemaking in France.

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour is an infant, but it is shaping up to be a real gem. The 2019 includes 9% Petit Verdot, the highest ever, an approach that works here in giving the wine tremendous aromatic presence and overall depth. A whole range of savory and earthy notes lends complexity to this powerhouse Georges de Latour. The 2019 is impressive, that much is evident. Vinous

Extremely aromatic with flowers, currants, plums, and cocoa. Full-bodied with compacted fruit and ultra-fine tannins giving it a suppleness and finesse, yet it’s very structured and long. Turns to sandalwood, hazelnut and subtle currants. Round and velvety texture at the end. Slightly deeper and denser. 55% new French barrels and 45% concrete eggs for 18 months. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 15% cabernet franc and 5% merlot. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Needs four or five years. An excellent mountain wine from the family owners of Pontet Canet. Try after 2026. Suckling

Classified as one of ten 4me crus in 1855, Chateau Talbot, in the Saint-Julien appellation, has a distinguished history. Throughout the years, it has been owned by the Governor of Aquitane, the Earl of Shrewsbury and the Marquis of Aux before being acquired by the Cordier family, the fourth generation of which are still in ownership today. Their 2016 Grand Cru is a wine of exceptional personality and charisma, already impressing critics with its silky sweetness and subtle edge. Balanced, crisp, and full of complexity, it is loaded with ageing potential, promising to become something even more prodigious just a few short years from now.

Regarded a Super Second (but technically a 3me growth), Palmer is capable of producing wines that equal or even outstrip the quality of its famous Premier cru neighbour, Ch. Margaux. Named for the wealthy English military man who bought the estate in the early 19th century, Palmer is now majority owned by the Mahler Besse and Sichel families - famous Bordeaux negociants. Many of the best plots on the property were purchased after the Classification of 1855, explaining in part why Palmer did not warrant higher standing at that time. Certainly today there is no question that the wine is among Bordeauxs best. The estate also makes a separate second label - named Alter Ego - which is made from similarly high quality fruit but treated differently in the winery with the aim of producing a counterpoint in style to the First wine.

The formidable fortress depicted on the famed vanilla Latour label was built to withstand the Gironde pirate attacks of the 15th Century. And, truly, as well as the tower still stands, so does Latour and its consistent excellence regardless of vintage. Nominally Pauillac, this First Growth sits almost astride the border of St. Julien and its output as one would expect is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon with 10 per cent awarded to both Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Any experience with Latour is to be savoured with patience this notoriously slow-developing wine requires at least a decade or twos development. But the reward for this patience is a fulsome melange of power, finesse, depth and tone.