This morning we've had the final Medoc first growth en primeur release. Paul Pontallier said that 2012 was only one week of good weather short of being a great vintage at Chateau Margaux, and told us - straight-faced - that it was "not far off" 2010. Only time will tell, but for one of our team it was the left bank's top wine. We were surprised to see it released at the same price as Mouton (now sold out), making it a firm buy if you're looking at this level. Also available is Pavillon Rouge, though not the new third wine which, we learned, is to be called, after much deliberation, "Margaux of Chateau Margaux".

One of the few great success stories of the campaign so far has been Chanel's beautiful Rauzan-Segla, a big hit at £210 for six. Today, even cheaper, we have their equally gorgeous Chateau Canon, consistently one of our favourites in St-Emilion. The 2012 is elegant and perfumed, with luscious red fruits and great balance and harmony.

Sadly we didn't taste Climens but those who did were very impressed. This is a vintage which appears to have favoured the Barsacs over the Sauternes and, with a price drop of nearly 40%, and Yquem not releasing, this should be the star of the campaign for sweet wine fans. /AR

Offered subject to availability for shipment spring 2015

Halves & magnums £10 extra per 9 litre case; other formats on request