Tasting Bordeaux Without the First-Growths

Departing from tradition, several producers declined to submit 2020s for blind-tasting

A portrait of senior editor James Molesworth holding a wineglass
Senior editor James Molesworth says the first-growths' absence creates more space for other Bordeaux properties to enter the conversation. (Alina Tyulyu)

A conspicuous handful of producers did not submit their wines for tasting this year. They were the five Médoc first-growths: Châteaus Mouton and Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Margaux and Haut-Brion. Read senior editor James Molesworth's column reflecting on the first-growths' decision.

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