The world of wine is always buzzing with anticipation, and as we look towards what 2024 has to offer, there's a palpable excitement. While some lists, like Wine Spectator's prestigious Top 100, often look back at previous vintages to celebrate their peak, the real thrill for many wine lovers lies in anticipating what's just around the corner. And this year, the buzz is particularly strong around Bordeaux, with early reports from the St-Julien appellation painting a picture of classicism, elegance, and finesse.
Imagine this: the vineyards of St-Julien, a region synonymous with some of the world's most revered wines, have experienced a growing season that, while yielding less in terms of volume (down a significant 54.7% from 2023), has produced wines with a remarkable intensity. Tasting notes speak of vivid, deep purple hues, fragrant notes of rosehip and violets, and a suppleness that promises immediate pleasure. It’s the kind of description that makes you lean in, eager to discover more. Wines like Château Léoville Poyferré are already hinting at complex layers of blackcurrant, milk chocolate, and cherry, with a texture described as sleek and silken – a true testament to the region's enduring quality.
But the conversation about top wines isn't confined to one region or even one year. We've seen the Wine Spectator's 2025 Top 100 list, which, while celebrating wines from 2022 and 2023, highlights the enduring strength of both Old World and New World producers. Château Giscours Margaux 2022, a classic Left Bank Bordeaux, took the top spot, lauded for its complexity, fine tannins, and elegant structure. It's a reminder that while new vintages emerge, the established stars continue to shine, often building on exceptional years like 2022.
Across the Atlantic, California's Aubert Chardonnay from Sonoma Coast UV-SL Vineyard 2023 impressed with its vibrant citrus, peach, and mineral notes, showcasing the pinnacle of New World Chardonnay winemaking. And the Ridge Lytton Springs Dry Creek Valley 2023, a Zinfandel-dominant blend, captured attention with its rich fruit and spice, demonstrating the unique expression of its Californian terroir.
What's also fascinating is the growing emphasis on value. The quest for wines that offer exceptional quality without breaking the bank is a constant pursuit for many. Lists highlighting 'Best Value Wines' are incredibly useful, pointing us towards gems that deliver more for our dollar. We see wines like Vina Zorzal Garnacha from Navarra, Spain, and Rivera 'Pungirosa' Bombino Nero Rosato from Italy, both from the 2024 vintage, scoring highly at accessible price points. Even in more established regions, there are treasures to be found; Chateau Gardat in Montagne-Saint-Emilion 2022 and Chateau Marjosse in Bordeaux 2023 are noted for their impressive scores at around the $10 mark. Moving up slightly in price, wines like Chateau Montlandrie from Cotes de Castillon 2023 and various offerings from New Zealand's Craggy Range demonstrate that excellent quality is attainable in the $20 bracket.
And for those seeking something truly special, the $40 bracket reveals delights such as Chateau Coutet and Denis Dubourdieu Chateau Doisy-Daene from Sauternes-Barsac, both 2024 vintages, promising the exquisite sweetness and complexity of these renowned dessert wines. It’s clear that whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your wine journey, 2024 is shaping up to be a vintage rich with promise, offering a diverse array of exceptional wines across different styles, regions, and price points. The adventure of discovery continues!