Betting on Bordeaux

I feel like a broken record with repeated articles on the value of Bordeaux wines. But, I think someone has to counteract the impression most most Americans seem to have that Bordeaux wines are overpriced.

Will Lyons has an article in the WSJ about 2009 Bordeaux and what people are saying:

One Bordeaux buyer quietly confided in me that when he visited the region a couple of months ago he was allowed to taste the juice. "It's very rare that growers let you taste anything at this stage," he said. "It was really rich and sweet -- 2009 will be a cracker."

He goes on to compare 2009 Bordeaux to 2005 and talks about some of the great values that wound up coming out of that vintage. If 2009 is as good as everyone has been saying, then there will be incredible deals. Sure, Chateau Margaux may be priced out of most people's reach, but but there will be great value in some of the 2nd and 3rd growths, just like there always is.

Remember, too, that the Bordelais do not live in a bubble. When I was in Bordeaux all of the winemakers I talked to do were aware of pricing and the economic conditions. I think that will factor into the pricing considerations for the 2009 vintage, no matter how good it is.

We'll know for sure beginning in April.