2020 Chateau Malescasse Le Moulin Rose de Malescasse Bordeaux

Chateau Malescasse holds an impressive status as one of only 14 Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel properties in the Haut-Medoc — a designation earned in 2020 and representing the top tier of Bordeaux estates outside the 1855 classification. The fine wines of this estate have appeared in brokers' records since the beginning of the 19th century, prized as one of the most consistently high-quality products in Bordeaux's most important area of trade. Situated between Margaux and Saint-Julien, overlooking the commune of Lamarque, the property has been owned by Vignobles Austruy since 2012.

Le Moulin Rose de Malescasse is the estate's second wine — made by the same team as the grand vin, using barrels or plots not selected for the main bottling and sold at a fraction of the price. The name pays tribute to the estate's landmark windmill, around which the vines flourish. It benefits from the same meticulous care as Chateau Malescasse, just without the Exceptionnel label — and the markup.

The 2020 vintage is a very good one across Bordeaux — a sunny year with excellent ripening conditions. This blend is 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, and 10% Petit Verdot, aged twelve months in a mix of used oak barrels and wooden vats. It comes in at 13.5% alcohol.

In the glass, there's deep blackcurrant on the nose, supported by cedar and a whisper of violet. On the tongue, plum and prune, a gentle herbal twist, soft tannins, and a rounded, smooth texture. The structure sits in the medium to full body range — the kind of tension and elegance you'd expect from the Haut-Medoc, without the Haut-Medoc tariff. The chateau recommends drinking now and says it'll store for up to seven more years. Pull the cork tonight — it's already showing beautifully.