Nine Under $100

1. Talbot (US$59)

The new winemaker, previously at La Conseillante, has really upped quality. The 2020 is very distinctive, with notes of olives and earth and an appealing soft density.

2. Château d’Issan (US$62)

The first vintage to include petit verdot and malbec in the blend is so elegant, with heady, perfumed aromas and silky texture.

3. Clerc Milon (US$86)

This wine in the Mouton stable gets better with every year. It is powerful and fruity, with tobacco overtones and mint and violet aromas.

4. Leoville Barton (US$90) An exceptionally fair price for a top-class second growth. Tannic and powerful, it is also succulent, filled with plump fruit.

5. Lilian Ladouys (US$20)

At this price of US$20 a bottle, you could not find anything from California that approaches the class of this medium-bodied, spicy-fruity red.

6. Siran (US$33)

This has brilliant balance, fresh cassis aromas and flavours and lush texture. The best vintage yet of this undervalued wine from Margaux.

7. Lafon-Rochet (US$40)

Two of Bordeaux’s top wine consultants collaborated on this St. Estephe blend from an underrated château in 2020. Its bright, crunchy fruit is positively lip-smacking. The price is cheaper than any vintage since 2014.

8. La Lagune (US$40)

This certified organic wine is a standout, with intense cassis and dried herb aromas and classic elegant red fruit flavours.

9. Fonplegade (US$45)

Over the past few years, this wine has jumped in quality. 2020 is the best yet, juicy and vibrant, lavender-scented, with deep blackberry and blueberry fruit.