​ Pape-Clement, Malescot, Langoa, Armailhac

We were expecting this week and next to be busy for new Bordeaux releases before the trade decamps to Hong Kong for Vinexpo from 24 to 26 May. In the event, yesterday saw just two releases, the most notable being Pape-Clement Rouge which, at less than half the current market price of the equivalent 2005, 2009 and 2010 vintages, aroused some much needed interest in the big names.

Today, any hope that Pape-Clement would spark more action is fading. This morning came the rich and impressive Malescot St-Exupery, the ever dependable Langoa Barton, and then the first activity from the Mouton stable in the form of Armailhac. All solid efforts at reasonable prices, but none of them worthy of their own folder in our "wishlists". Perhaps I will learn more of what we can expect over dinner this evening with Olivier Bernard, President of the Union des Grands Crus. Don't hold your breath. /AR

Offered subject to remaining unsold; available 2018