Bordeaux 2023
Changing climates have led to Bordeaux’s maritime climate becoming increasingly unpredictable in recent years. The weather conditions in Bordeaux 2023 presented more than a few challenges in the vineyard. After a mild, dry winter, spring and early summer were humid and warm – ideal conditions for the development of mildew, which can significantly reduce yields if not addressed in time. Those with the financial means and manpower at their disposal managed to escape the worst of the damage, but others weren’t so lucky. Consequently, yields from this wine vintage vary considerably from one property to the next. The first half of August was relatively cool, but from the middle of the month, heatwave conditions set in for over a week, aiding the ripening process, followed by another temperature spike in the first ten days of September. Harvesting took place in an unhurried manner over an extended period, allowing châteaux to pick their various grape varieties at optimal ripeness, making this a noteworthy year for fine wine investment.
Comparisons have been drawn with the excellent Bordeaux 2023 vintage, a classic in its own right that, like the renowned 2001 vintage, is one of my favorites for its balance and drinkability. The favorable pricing for this wine vintage means that these wines can be purchased and enjoyed. If you have been sitting out on fine wine investment for several years, now would be an excellent time to stock up on what will undoubtedly prove to be both excellent value and highly drinkable wines.
Top Picks
Our selections from the vintage include Pichon Longueville Comtesse-de-Lalande, Mouton Rothschild, and for sheer value, Leoville Las-Cases, with Pontet-Canet offering, in my opinion, the best value-to-score ratio in the context of Bordeaux 2023.
For fine wine investment, the funds will be acquiring Carruades de Lafite 2023, which is being released at £930 per case of six—approximately 66% lower than previous market highs.