Talking Wine – October 2016

Is it me or is Bordeaux improving? Or am I just getting old.? They always say Claret is an old man’s drink! I was in Bordeaux recently and ordered a few cases of Chateau Labegorse (previously known as Labegorse Zede) from the commune of Margaux. Although I did not actually visit this property the word on the street is that it is under new ownership and is hugely improved yet still great value. I was reliably informed that prices will start rising soon so I bagged a few cases of the 2012 vintage which despite its youth is really tasting rather good. I will certainly slip away a few cases but this is a Chateau worth watching. Another is Chateau Pedesclaux, a 5th growth in the Pauillac region, which is under new ownership and making dramatically better wines. The vineyards are sandwiched between Pontet Canet and Mouton Rothchild so there is some serious pedigree here!