Of all the chateaux overlooked in the 1855 Bordeaux classification, few are as deserving as Margaux property Deyrem Valentin. It is well sited, on the same mix of gravel, sand and clay soils that underpin the appellation`s most prestigious addresses. The vines average 40 years old, and there is one parcel where some are almost 100, placing them among the Medoc’s very oldest. The consultant oenologist is Hubert de Bouard, owner of Chateau Angelus. As Jeff Leve notes on thewinecellarinsider, Deyrem Valentin competes with many classified growths for a lot less money.

The Sorge family picked up Deyrem Valentin at a public auction in 1928, and soon enlarged it by buying a parcel of vines from Chateau Palmer (try doing that now!) These days it is run by fifth generation Christelle Sorge, who honed her craft at home, at school and in Australia. (NT 21/08/23)