written by Sarah Harrison
As oenophiles the world over eagerly await the verdict from wine industry professionals on the Bordeaux 2023 vintage Grand Cru Classé wines, we think this is an opportune moment to share with you some of our favourite Bordeaux wines from the Rothschild families ready for drinking now.
Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite Wines
Les Légendes R Bordeaux Blanc 2022
This underrated gem shines with its burst of citrus notes and steely minerality. With a pale gold colour and a fine, elegant nose marrying white flowers with mineral undertones, it offers a harmonious, fresh palate.
A beautiful deep garnet colour sets the stage for this wine, leading into an aromatic nose dominated by spicy hints of vanilla and nutmeg. Its full-bodied, supple palate is balanced with integrated oaky notes, culminating in a long, spicy finish—a true representation of the elegant 2020 vintage in Médoc.
Reserve Spéciale Pauillac 2020
Distinguished by its deep garnet hue, this Pauillac is available in magnum so perfect for sharing with friends and family this bank holiday weekend (because who wants to be relying on rosé weather right now?!) The wine offers an expressive nose filled with undergrowth, cedar, and tobacco. Its supple, full-bodied palate boasts velvety tannins and an elegant, aromatic finish, true to the DBR Lafite style - a classic example of Pauillac.
With its deep crimson-purple colour, this wine presents an intense, complex nose blending spices, ripe fruit, and subtle oaky notes. On the palate, it's full, rich, and balanced with a fresh, aromatic finish — a very elegant claret.
Edmond de Rothschild Wines
A standout vintage, this deep purple wine entices with juicy black cherry fruit flavours and well-balanced tannins. Enhanced by new oak influence, it offers a smoky, sweet-edged complexity — a true testament to the craftsmanship of Fabrice Darmaillacq and his team at Château Clarke.
An approachable right bank wine with an elegant frame allowing rich Merlot fruit to shine. Its intense aromatic complexity, balanced oak, and refined tannins lead to a remarkably fresh palate with great length. A wine as exquisite as the Chateau from which it originates.....
Château des Laurets BARON 2016
Big brother to Chateau des Laurets, the BARON is defined by its body balanced with elegance. This wine boasts supple, velvety tannins and an explosion of ripe fresh fruits. Matured in new French oak barrels, it balances woodiness with toasted notes for a delightful tasting experience.
Created by and named after Eve de Rothschild with winemaker Fabrice Bandiera, this rare amphora-aged Merlot delivers a creamy nose of blueberry, cassis, and violets. Intense and defined on the palate, it promises great fruit concentration—a perfect accompaniment to protein-rich dishes or a cellar-worthy delight.
While anticipation mounts for the verdict on the 2023 vintage, these Bordeaux wines stand as testament to the region's rich diversity and storied craftsmanship, offering a delightful journey through past vintages.
So to the vintages gone by; the bottles ready to be enjoyed, and the delights that await us....Salut!