We tasted this last autumn, and it was a consensus winner with both our NorCal and SoCal teams among a lineup of simply stunning wines from Giscours. It’s purely coincidental that, in the time since, the Grand Vin from this estate went on to win Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year from the very same vintage. The vines for this wine sit just outside the Margaux appellation, yet share much of the same terroir and are crafted by the same winemaking team. The result is a wonderful value that speaks clearly to Margaux typicité while remaining approachable and classically styled. Notes of deep red fruit and beautiful florals are complemented by a lifted palate, along with impressive tannic structure and texture. The 2022 vintage adds a touch of extra volume, and the finish is long and complex. This wine reflects a benchmark winery operating at a remarkable level—all at a superb price. A terrific under-the-radar buy that I’d urge you not to miss.

Sometimes you come across a wine that just says something to you. This said to me that for $30 you can sure get a hell of a banger bottle of Bordeaux for your table. This is just phenomenal for the price, I already know that most of the 2022 Bordeaux I've had have been just great, but this really feels like it's another level, and for a second wine that's pretty outstanding. Bright and pure cassis on the front, with cherry and bramble on the back of the nose. The palate is generous and lush, beautiful fruit, but with enough tannin that you really want a little fat, a little food, to make it just perfect. At least I did, but I'm kind of a tannin wuss sometimes. The fruit on the palate is super pure and lovely, there's oak in the back but it's playing second fiddle and just accentuating the beauty of the wine. This is just one of those bottles I could ramble about for ages, but just know it's a great wine at a great price and you'll have a great time. It's just great.