La Grace de Pauillac 2023

If you know your Bordeaux, the names of the five First Growth estates (arguably the most famous names in wine) are likely etched in your mind.

You’ll also know that three of the five First Growths are located in Pauillac, a small village of on the Left Bank of the Gironde. This is hallowed ground for Cabernet Sauvignon.

While these châteaux technically sit at the top Bordeaux’s pyramid, the classification was published in 1855. Today, there are handful of Grand Cru Classé châteaux that critics and afficionados believe produce wines of equal (sometimes greater) quality. These cult reds are the “Super Seconds.”

In some cases, these Super Seconds are just as collectible as the First Growths. And that’s certainly the case with the château from which this exquisite red was sourced. While we’re sworn to secrecy on the estate’s name—we’re legally bound under a non-disclosure agreement to never reveal it—there are a few things we can say

• The estate’s Grand Vin routinely gets scores in the high 90s from top critics, and costs well over $100 a bottle.
• The château was a pioneer of biodynamic farming in the region and use horses to plow the vineyards.
• It lies across the road from one of Pauillac’s First Growths.

While this red is not the Grand Vin, it comes from the same vineyards and the same renowned cellar team. It also hails from 2023, which critic James Suckling calls “a vintage to love.”

Here are our Bordeaux expert Jean-Marc’s tasting notes: “The nose opens with dark berries, violets, graphite and a touch of cedar. On the palate, there are refined tannins and a crystalline purity of fruit—cassis, black cherry and subtle spice. The biodynamic influence lends freshness and balance, with a vibrant acidity that enhances its precision. Oak is beautifully integrated, adding a gentle toastiness. There’s impressive energy and length, suggesting excellent aging potential. A wine of grace and quiet confidence.”

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and only 350 cases exist.