It appears that a highly mixed set of Parker scores together with a very weak marketplace has left Bordeaux proprietors bewildered and the 2012 campaign in a state of paralysis. Yesterday, Troplong Mondot proved that even a high score and a price reduction aren't enough for potential buyers this year. What else can they do? The answer, it seems, is to wait and see. One very prominent owner who was planning to release yesterday has been advised to sit tight till the week commencing 13 May. Hopes for an early and quick campaign are fading...

So just a couple of notable releases to report. Past vintages of Lafon-Rochet have never failed to impress, and the 2012 looks set to uphold that record. Only Montrose and Cos d'Estournel showed better in St-Estephe, and this could hardly be more modestly priced.

And from Pessac-Leognan, Pape-Clement red and white, consistently two of Parker's favourites. /AR

Offered subject to availability for shipment spring 2015

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