Author: Dane Kuta

Cos d’Estournel is a unique Indian-theme Grand Cru Classé in Saint Estèphe. The accompanying restaurant is Michelin Star rated kind of place.

Located in the northern-most appellation of Bordeaux’s Left Bank, Saint Estèphe, Ormes de Pez not only makes wine but is also a wonderful and historic place to stay.

Château Franc Mayne is both a wine-making château and a bed and breakfast. The swimming pool is outstanding.

Château La Fleur-Pétrus is a neighbor of the famous Pétrus under the same ownership of Christian Moueix (family).

Château Figeac was recently promoted to a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé A in 2022. I bought a 2010 and 2015 to bring home.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte is a popular estate with great wines on Bordeaux’s Left Bank in Graves, the Pessac-Léognan appellation specifically.

Château Gruaud Larose, in Saint Julien, has both a modern and history feel. The steel lookout tower–and the wines– are simply amazing.

Château Lynch-Bages sits in the Pauillac appellation on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, in the tiny hamlet of Bages (hence the name). Although classified as a 5th Growth, the wine often out performs its ranking and has earned the nickname ‘Super Second.’

Château Phèlan Ségur is a beautiful estate in the northern Médoc commune of Saint-Estèphe.

Château Talbot, in Saint-Julien, is a 4th growth on Bordeaux’s Left Bank. Legend has it that the name dates to its ownership by Englishman Lord John Talbot, the Earl of Shrewsbury, who was killed at the Battle of Castillon in 1453. Records aren’t definitive, but it’s a great story.