Cellar Fillers
It is no secret that wineries with ‘lesser terroirs’, and those without the deep pockets neccessary to cope withthe adverse conditions, suffered in 2024. In the face of the various climactic pressures, some of the more affordable Châteaux had limited means to combat the issues of disease, so selection is key. However, the great news is that the ones who were successful, have created some old school classics.
Please note that we can source wines in any format if offered by the Château. Just indicate which size you would like in your wishlist order form or email us with a specific request. Bottling charges do apply so please see our Terms for more details.
L&S Recommendations
L&S 'best buy' recommendations are marked with this symbol 
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2024 CLOS MANOU Médoc
Release date: 24/4/2025
The northern stretches of the Médoc appellation were a challenging place to be in 2024, with high acidities and a risk of dilution. If anyone can cope with it, it's Stephane Diéf and this isThe northern stretches of the Médoc appellation were a challenging place to be in 2024, with high acidities and a risk of dilution. If anyone can cope with it, it's Stephane Diéf and this is definitely one of the brighter spots in the appellation, but even here you find a wine that goes long on lean, vivid blue fruits, sappy salinity, finely tuned muscles... you get the picture. Supremely well made, a lot to enjoy, but don't expect exuberance. 5% press wine, September 25 to October 9 for harvest, 55% new oak for ageing, 3.47ph, 72IPT. 18ha of vines in Saint-Christoly de Médoc and Couquèques. Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (Apr 2025)
In Bond
2024 CHÂTEAU BRANAIRE DUCRU 4ème Cru Classé Saint Julien
Release date: 24/4/2025
Owner, François-Xavier Maroteaux is the new president of the Union de Grands Crus de Bordeaux - and has tried to generate some energy in the campaign with this well considered early release. WeOwner, François-Xavier Maroteaux is the new president of the Union de Grands Crus de Bordeaux - and has tried to generate some energy in the campaign with this well considered early release. We tasted twice and found a good, classically shaped Branaire. Very much in the house style but with a lightness in feel and intensity that comes in 2024. The nose delivers good brooding promise with smart oak and dark savour. Some classical shadows to the well presented fruit bundle. This leads to a bright and juicy attack with mouth-watering freshness revealing a firm line of chiseled red flesh. Perky bites with cherry skin notes and a summer-pudding smashed fruit mix. Successful in the vintage with a softL&S (Apr 2025)
In Bond