Top Guns

Bordeaux’s elite estates shine in the inconsistent 2019 vintage

Pauillac's Château Lafite Rothschild reflected in the still waters of a pond
Pauillac estate Château Lafite Rothschild was perfectly situated to capitalize on the growing conditions in 2019. (Deepix Studio)

Despite impressive releases from Bordeaux’s premier estates, the 2019 vintage is inconsistent across and even within appellations, resulting in fewer wines that will improve with age. Consumers won't be able to easily buy across the board as they have in recent years. Get Wine Spectator senior editor James Moleswoth’s latest report on the region, including his picks for top Left Bank and Right Bank reds, top dry whites, top Barsac and Sauternes and top values for the region.

Member-Only Content

Premium Subscription

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 450,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Start Free 30-day Trial

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 425,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

Subscribe today

You Might Also Like

12 Refreshing Alto Adige Whites Up to 92 Points

12 Refreshing Alto Adige Whites Up to 92 Points

New reviews of top Italian Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and more, priced as …

Oct 9, 2025
Play It Cool

Play It Cool

The global trend toward cooler-climate wines is yielding an array of outstanding buys

Nov 15, 2025
Different Shades of White Burgundy

Different Shades of White Burgundy

The 2022 vintage is classic, with elite wines joined by more affordable versions from …

Nov 15, 2025
Trading Up on New Zealand

Trading Up on New Zealand

Distinctive wines and producers’ green mindset fuel consumer appeal for the top bottlings

Nov 15, 2025
Gigondas Blanc: Exciting and New

Gigondas Blanc: Exciting and New

Get to know these Clairette-based white wines from the Southern Rhône

Nov 15, 2025
8 Exuberant California Chardonnays Up to 92 Points

8 Exuberant California Chardonnays Up to 92 Points

New reviews of Golden State whites, including wines from Napa, Sonoma, Monterey and more, …

Oct 6, 2025