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Bordeaux vintage chart: 1980-2022
| Category | Best Vintages | Good Vintages | Average Vintages | Low Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1980's Red | 1982, 1986 | 1983, 1985, 1988, 1989 | 1981, 1984, 1987 | 1980 |
| 1980's White | 1986, 1988 | 1981, 1982, 1983, 1985 | 1980, 1984, 1987, 1989 | N/A |
| 1990's Red | 1990, 1995, 1996 | 1998, 1999 | 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1997 | N/A |
| 1990's White | 1992, 1996, 1997 | 1990, 1995, 1998 | 1991, 1993, 1994, 1999 | N/A |
| 2000's Red | 2000, 2005, 2009 | 2001, 2003, 2008 | 2002, 2004, 2006, 2007 | N/A |
| 2000's White | 2001, 2005, 2007 | 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2009 | 2003 | N/A |
| 2010's Red | 2010, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019 | 2011, 2012, 2014 | 2013, 2017 | N/A |
| 2010's White | 2012, 2014, 2017, 2019 | 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2018 | N/A | N/A |
| 2020's Red | 2020 | 2022 | 2021 | N/A |
| 2020's White | 2020 | 2022 | 2021 | N/A |
Vintage Overview
1980s Reds
The legendary 1982 vintage leads the pack, showcasing the power and longevity Bordeaux can achieve. The late '80s also saw several high-quality vintages, underlining the decade's significant impact on the region's winemaking prestige.
1980s Whites
This decade was more variable for whites, but there were standout years, particularly mid-decade, highlighting the potential for excellence despite the challenges.
1990s Reds
The mid-'90s marked a return to form, with 1990, 1995, and 1996 being particularly noteworthy. These vintages demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of Bordeaux's vineyards and winemakers.
1990s Whites
Consistency in quality, especially in the latter half of the decade, with 1996 and 1997 standing out. These years confirmed the exceptional potential of white Bordeaux when conditions align.
2000s Reds
A golden era for Bordeaux with several exceptional vintages, 2005 and 2009 being the pinnacle of quality. This period reasserted Bordeaux's dominance in the global wine market.
2000s Whites
The quality of white Bordeaux was more evenly spread throughout the decade, with 2001 and 2005 being exceptional. These vintages showcased the versatility and finesse of white Bordeaux wines.
2010/20s Reds and Whites
The most recent decades show a high consistency in quality, with several outstanding vintages across both red and white wines. This era continues to build on Bordeaux's storied legacy, promising a bright future for both colours of wine.
What makes a great Bordeaux vintage?
To understand the greatness of Bordeaux vintages, one must delve into the complex interplay of factors that sculpt their identity. Similar to Burgundy, the proficiency of the winemaker, the geographical nuances of the vineyard, and the intricacies of vinification and harvest timing are vital. However, in Bordeaux, the influence of climatic conditions throughout the growing season emerges as what we consider to be a paramount determinant in the distinction between an extraordinary vintage and a lesser one.
The appreciation of a Bordeaux vintage's quality is an exploration into the symphony of nature's influence and human intervention in viticulture, shedding light on the process behind producing remarkable wines poised for both enjoyment and what we believe to be potential investment opportunities. With its vast and varied landscapes, Bordeaux resents a tapestry of microclimates and soils across its notable regions—Médoc, Graves, Pomerol, Saint-Émilion, and Sauternes, among others. This diversity engenders a rich array of wine profiles, making the identification of the finest Bordeaux vintages a complex and sometimes contentious endeavour.
Bordeaux is home to illustrious estates like Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux, Château Haut-Brion, and Château Cheval Blanc, whose vintages consistently epitomise excellence, seldom missing the mark of high expectations. Quality can see wider fluctuations for the myriad of smaller producers spread across the region. Despite this, it's possible to discern specific years that have garnered universal acclaim from critics, indicating what we consider to be a higher likelihood of appreciation over time.
Understanding the best Bordeaux vintages requires more than just recognising names and numbers; it demands an appreciation for the region's unique climatic challenges and triumphs.
Each acclaimed vintage tells a story of weather patterns perfectly aligned with the lifecycle of the vine, of winemakers adeptly navigating nature's trials and of grapes reaching their zenith of quality.
As we venture through the annals of Bordeaux's wine history, these standout years offer not just a glimpse into the region's winemaking prowess but also what we believe to be a roadmap for collectors and investors in search of liquid gold.
The Cult Wine Investment approach to vintage variation
We view Bordeaux as an essential component of a fine wine collection during all vintages. The region’s legacy and prestige along with its track record of stable performance mean many of its wines deserve buyers’ attention even during ‘lesser’ years.
But we believe a selective, analytical approach can get the best value out of Bordeaux’s diverse market. Our individual selections have delivered stronger post-EP price appreciation than a fixed basket of Bordeaux wines (see chart below) during both the top vintages and so-called down years.
Whether you’re an investment-minded fine wine buyer or just looking to make your Bordeaux spending go further, Cult Wine Investment’s approach can unlock the full potential of this historic region in any vintage.
To learn more or register your interest, see our Bordeaux En Primeur coverage.
Bordeaux Vintages Of The 2020s so far…
2022 Bordeaux Vintage: Triumph Over Adversity
The 2022 Bordeaux vintage emerges as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the region's vineyards amidst unprecedented climatic challenges. The growing season was marked by a series of hurdles, including a cool and dry winter, early budburst and flowering, April frosts, June hailstorms, and prolonged drought conditions. The summer brought intense heat waves, which, while contributing to phenolic ripeness, required careful management to mitigate against sunburn and drought stress.
Despite these challenges, the resulting wines are of excellent quality, with many on their way to being deemed exceptional. The red wines, particularly Merlot and Cabernet Franc, exhibit richness, depth, and concentrated fruit, with fine aromatics. Cabernet Sauvignon has benefited from ripe tannins and phenolic ripeness, showcasing sophisticated structures that promise excellent potential for long-term cellaring.
Although alcohol levels are higher than usual due to the heat, the wines have managed to retain an elegant freshness and avoid overt jamminess. This balance is a testament to the skill and adaptability of Bordeaux's winemakers in navigating the challenges posed by the changing climate.
The white wines and rosé from the 2022 vintage also show great promise, with harvests beginning in mid-August and yielding fruit of exceptional quality. The sparkling wines, too, are expected to showcase the unique character of this vintage.
However, the 2022 vintage also serves as a poignant reminder of the increasing impact of climate change on Bordeaux's vineyards. The wildfires that raged throughout July and August, while fortunately causing minimal damage to the grapes, underscore the need for adaptive strategies in the face of a rapidly heating and drying climate.
For collectors and investors, the 2022 Bordeaux vintage offers an exciting opportunity to acquire wines of outstanding quality that have triumphed over adversity. These wines are a testament to the enduring spirit and expertise of Bordeaux's winemakers and are expected to evolve beautifully over the years, rewarding those with the patience to cellar them.
As we look to the future, the 2022 vintage stands as a marker of Bordeaux's resilience and ability to produce exceptional wines even in the face of unprecedented challenges. It is a vintage that will be remembered not only for its quality but also for the lessons it offers about the future of winemaking in a changing climate.
Exploring Potential in Bordeaux 2022 Wines
Initial assessments and barrel tastings suggest two Bordeaux 2022 wines with notable investment prospects:
Château Lafite Rothschild - Pauillac
As a Premier Cru Classé (First Growth) from the Left Bank, Château Lafite Rothschild is renowned for its consistent production of high-quality wines with superb ageing potential. The 2022 vintage is poised to maintain this high standard, bolstered by Lafite's esteemed reputation and global demand, making it a compelling investment choice.
Château Pavie - Saint-Émilion
A Premier Grand Cru Classé A from the Right Bank, Château Pavie is celebrated for its rich, concentrated wines. The 2022 vintage in Saint-Émilion is expected to be outstanding, and given Pavie's proven track record and its growing popularity among collectors, it presents itself as a robust investment opportunity.
To discuss adding these wines, or any others, to your portfolio, please contact our Investment Management Team.
Bordeaux Vintages Of The 2010s
The 2019 Bordeaux Vintage: A Beacon for Connoisseurs and Investors Alike
The 2019 Bordeaux vintage emerges as a guiding light for wine investors, directing them towards a promising investment opportunity. Renowned for its exceptional grape quality, the vintage has won widespread acclaim from enthusiasts and critics alike. The impeccably ripe grapes have produced wines of profound aromatic expressions, balanced acidity, and a polished structure, with the reds showcasing a notable complexity and depth. These red wines present a lush, fruit-driven profile that deeply engages the senses, underpinning the vintage's potential for value appreciation over time.
The path to success in 2019 was fraught with challenges for Bordeaux. Early frosts impacted yields in several key appellations, putting pressure on the region’s vineyards. Despite these hurdles, the adversity underscored Bordeaux's extraordinary resilience and the superior quality of its terroir. The surviving fruit achieved exceptional quality levels, making the vintage not just remarkable for its sensory appeal but also its rarity. This scarcity further enhances the vintage's attractiveness to investors, adding to its intrigue.
Characterised by a blend of aromatic richness, structural finesse, and limited availability, the 2019 Bordeaux vintage offers a compelling investment opportunity. It epitomises Bordeaux’s viticultural excellence, promising sensory delight and significant potential for appreciation. Investors and collectors enthusiastically embrace this vintage as a testament to Bordeaux’s enduring charm and the opulent legacy of its winemaking tradition.
Bordeaux Vintages Of The 2000s
2009 Bordeaux Vintage: A Modern Classic
The 2009 Bordeaux vintage is celebrated for its opulence, balance, and accessibility. The growing season was nearly ideal: a cold winter, mild and wet spring, and warm, dry summer—these conditions allowed for optimal ripening, with grapes achieving perfect phenolic maturity. The resulting wines are rich, harmonious, and structured, embodying what we consider to be the essence of a great Bordeaux vintage.
We believe the 2009 Bordeaux vintage offers exceptional opportunities from an investment perspective. The red wines from the Left Bank, particularly in the Médoc and Pessac-Léognan regions, are characterized by their depth, richness, and silky tannins. Top estates such as Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion have produced wines with remarkable concentration and elegance. These wines, reminiscent of the legendary 1982 vintage, are expected to age beautifully, making them what we consider to be highly attractive for long-term investment.
The Right Bank, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, produced equally stunning wines. Producers like Château Pétrus, Château La Conseillante, and Château Cheval Blanc have crafted wines with lush, ripe fruit, velvety textures, and extraordinary complexity. These wines are approachable in their youth but possess the structure and balance for extended ageing, much like the 1990 vintage. For collectors and investors, we believe these Right Bank wines represent a compelling blend of immediate pleasure and future potential.
The white wines of the 2009 vintage, particularly from Pessac-Léognan, are also noteworthy. Benefiting from the favourable weather, these wines exhibit vibrant acidity, ripe fruit, and a refined mineral character. Châteaux such as Château Smith Haut Lafitte and Château Pape Clément have produced whites that mirror the excellence of the 2007 vintage, offering both immediate enjoyment and potential for further development in the bottle. These whites provide what we consider to be a diversified investment option within the 2009 vintage.
The sweet wines from Sauternes and Barsac experienced a near-perfect growing season. The conditions were ideal for developing noble rot, resulting in incredible richness, balance, and longevity wines. Estates like Château d'Yquem and Château Suduiraut have crafted wines with intense honeyed fruit, vibrant acidity, and a luxurious mouthfeel, drawing favourable comparisons to the esteemed 2001 vintage. Given their age-worthiness and hedonistic appeal, these sweet wines are highly desirable for collectors and investors.
The 2009 Bordeaux vintage is distinguished by its uniform excellence across all appellations and levels. This consistency, combined with the wines' immediate appeal and long-term ageing potential, makes the 2009 vintage a cornerstone for fine wine portfolios. The balance, richness, and structure of these wines suggest a promising appreciation in value over time.
For investors, we believe that the 2009 Bordeaux vintage represents a strategic addition to a fine wine portfolio. The reds, with their profound depth and elegance, and the whites, with their vibrant clarity and balance, offer a diversified and highly promising investment opportunity. These wines not only reflect Bordeaux's enduring winemaking excellence but also hold significant potential for appreciation in value as they mature, making them what we consider to be a prudent choice for long-term investment.
Drawing parallels with legendary vintages like 1982, 1990, 2001, and 2007, the wines from this vintage showcase Bordeaux's ability to produce extraordinary quality under optimal conditions. We believe that connoisseurs and investors should seriously consider the 2009 Bordeaux vintage to enhance their collections and portfolios with wines of distinction and unparalleled potential.
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Bordeaux Vintages Of The 1990s
1999 Bordeaux Vintage: A Year of Understated Charm
The 1999 Bordeaux vintage is characterised by a growing season that presented various challenges yet resulted in wines of surprising elegance and charm. The year began with a mild winter, followed by an uneven spring with significant rainfall that complicated flowering and fruit set. Summer brought a mix of warm and wet weather, leading to a harvest that required careful timing and selection to ensure quality. Despite these obstacles, the 1999 vintage has produced wines that are approachable, balanced, and nuanced.
From an investment perspective, we believe the 1999 Bordeaux vintage offers selective opportunities, especially for those who appreciate the finesse and accessibility of classic Bordeaux wines. The red wines from the Left Bank, particularly in the Médoc and Pessac-Léognan regions, display fresh acidity, fine tannins, and vibrant fruit. Notable estates such as Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion have crafted wines with excellent balance and depth, reminiscent of the charming 1985 vintage. These wines are expected to develop well over the next two decades, making them, in our view, attractive for medium-term investment.
The Right Bank, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, produced wines of notable quality. Esteemed producers like Château Pétrus, Château La Conseillante, and Château Cheval Blanc have created wines with ripe, supple fruit, silky tannins, and impressive aromatic complexity. These wines offer both early accessibility and the potential for moderate ageing, drawing comparisons to the successful 1989 vintage. For investors, we consider these Right Bank wines to provide a balanced option, combining immediate drinking pleasure with the promise of further evolution.
The white wines of the 1999 vintage, particularly from Pessac-Léognan, are noteworthy for their freshness and precision. Benefiting from the cooler conditions, these wines exhibit vibrant acidity, clear fruit expression, and a refined mineral character. Châteaux such as Château Smith Haut Lafitte and Château Pape Clément have produced whites with good potential for development in the bottle, enhancing their attractiveness as what we believe to be investment-worthy wines. These whites offer both immediate enjoyment and a solid addition to a diversified investment portfolio.
The sweet wines from Sauternes and Barsac faced a challenging season, but selective harvesting allowed for the creation of rich, balanced wines with intense honeyed fruit and bright acidity. Estates like Château d'Yquem and Château Suduiraut have crafted wines that are reminiscent of the elegant 1988 vintage. These sweet wines are highly sought after by collectors and investors for their age-worthiness and luxurious profiles.
The 1999 Bordeaux vintage is distinguished by its quality and the scarcity of top wines from renowned châteaux. This exclusivity, driven by meticulous vineyard management and selective harvesting, ensures that only the finest grapes contribute to the final product. The combination of high quality and limited availability makes these wines, in our opinion, particularly sought after in the secondary market.
For investors, we believe the 1999 Bordeaux vintage offers a valuable addition to a fine wine portfolio. The reds, with their refined structure and potential for moderate ageing, and the whites, with their vibrant clarity and balance, present what we consider to be a diversified and promising investment option. These wines not only reflect Bordeaux's enduring winemaking excellence but also hold potential for appreciation in value as they mature, making them, in our view, a prudent choice for long-term investment.
Drawing parallels with successful vintages like 1985, 1989, and 1988, the wines from this vintage showcase Bordeaux's ability to produce exceptional quality even in challenging years. We believe connoisseurs and investors alike should consider the 1999 Bordeaux vintage to enhance their collections and portfolios with wines of distinction and potential.
Bordeaux Vintages Of The 1980s
1989 Bordeaux Vintage: A Year of Warmth and Opulence
The 1989 Bordeaux vintage is hailed as one of the most exceptional of the 20th century, marked by its opulent fruit, balance, and longevity. The growing season was characterised by a hot, dry summer with minimal rainfall, leading to early ripening and an unusually early harvest. These ideal conditions resulted in grapes of exceptional ripeness and concentration, producing wines with remarkable richness and complexity.
From an investment perspective, we believe the 1989 Bordeaux vintage offers outstanding opportunities. The red wines from the Left Bank, particularly in the Médoc and Pessac-Léognan regions, are extraordinary. They exhibit ripe tannins, vibrant acidity, and deep, concentrated fruit, reminiscent of legendary vintages such as 1982 and 1961. Iconic estates like Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion have produced wines of remarkable power, elegance, and complexity. These wines are expected to age gracefully for several decades, making them, in our opinion, prime candidates for long-term investment.
The Right Bank, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, also produced wines of outstanding quality. Esteemed producers like Château Pétrus, Château La Conseillante, and Château Cheval Blanc have crafted wines with lush, opulent fruit, velvety textures, and remarkable aromatic complexity. These wines offer both immediate appeal and tremendous ageing potential, drawing favourable comparisons to the exceptional 1982 vintage. For collectors and investors, we consider these Right Bank gems to represent a compelling blend of early enjoyment and future potential.
The white wines of the 1989 vintage, particularly from Pessac-Léognan, are equally impressive. These wines exhibit a perfect balance of vibrant acidity, ripe fruit, and refined minerality. Châteaux such as Château Smith Haut Lafitte and Château Pape Clément have produced whites with excellent potential for bottle ageing, enhancing their attractiveness as what we believe to be investment-worthy wines.
The sweet wines from Sauternes and Barsac benefited from the warm conditions, which were ideal for the development of noble rot. The resulting wines are incredibly rich, complex, and balanced, with intense honeyed fruit, vibrant acidity, and a luxurious mouthfeel. Estates like Château d'Yquem and Château Suduiraut have crafted opulent wines that are reminiscent of the celebrated 1976 vintage. These sweet wines are highly desirable for both collectors and investors, given their age-worthiness and hedonistic qualities.
The 1989 Bordeaux vintage is distinguished by its uniform excellence across all appellations and levels. This consistency, combined with the wines' immediate appeal and long-term ageing potential, makes the 1989 vintage, in our view, a cornerstone for fine wine portfolios. The balance, richness, and structure of these wines suggest a promising appreciation in value over time.
For investors, we believe the 1989 Bordeaux vintage offers a valuable addition to a fine wine portfolio. The reds, with their profound depth and longevity, and the whites, with their vibrant clarity and balance, present what we consider to be a diversified and highly promising investment option. These wines not only epitomise Bordeaux's winemaking prowess but also hold significant potential for appreciation in value, making them, in our opinion, a prudent choice for long-term investment.
This vintage offers a compelling case for both immediate enjoyment and long-term investment. Drawing parallels with legendary vintages like 1982 and 1961, the wines from this vintage showcase Bordeaux's ability to produce extraordinary quality under optimal conditions. We believe connoisseurs and investors alike should consider the 1989 Bordeaux vintage to enhance their collections and portfolios with wines of distinction and unparalleled potential.
