Chateau Haut-Marbuzet, Saint-Estephe, 2019

Saint-Estèphe's overachiever. Henri Duboscq has run Haut-Marbuzet since 1962, pioneering the use of new oak barrels in the region and consistently producing wines that rival classified growths at a fraction of the price. This 2019 earned 94 points from Vinous—velvety Merlot-dominant (55%) with black cherry, coffee, and supple tannins from 18+ months in new oak. One of Bordeaux's best values for serious cellaring or drinking now. Saint-Estèphe overachiever. Henri Duboscq since 1962. Vinous 94 pts. 55% Merlot, 18+ months new oak. Velvety, complex—rivals classified growths.