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There is something about Bordeaux en Primeurs which reminds me of an old love affair. It goes along the lines of “Here we go again” and conjures up images of seduction, charm and approachability. Certainly, there was a sort of “love at first sight” when tasting the newborn wines this year, tinged with a touch of the under-dog as the prettiest, juiciest, freshest and most perfumed, crimson bright wines astounded us when we thought of the hurdles their grapes had leapt over before being transformed into such surprisingly beautiful wines.

Bordeaux has not had an easy time of late: mildew, drought, frost and heat have rendered yields pitifully low. Erratic pricing has turned customers towards other regions and countries, and the impression of tannic, inaccessible wines has put off those who do not have a cellar to age the wines.   Despite these setbacks, there are so many reasons to be cheerful about Bordeaux. On the eve of the 2025 vintage En Primeur campaign, we would like to tell you why we love Bordeaux, inspired by some very sage words from French writer and taster, Denis Hervier. 

The 2016 Bordeaux vintage stands out as a beautifully balanced and classic year, combining freshness, structure, and ripe fruit thanks to contrasting weather conditions. Ten years on, the wines are showing impressive harmony, with many already approachable while still offering excellent aging potential. Overall, 2016 confirms itself as a refined and elegant vintage, often preferred over the richer 2015, and well worth revisiting or adding to the cellar.