Cabernet wines from California are becoming increasingly expensive, while Bordeaux is becoming more affordable again. Consequently, they once again represent a good alternative.

The Château Pontet-Canet 2013 Pauillac Cinquième Grand Cru features notes of cassis, powdered sugar, and oyster shell, along with animalic nuances; it possesses a full body and good structure, and is dense, balanced, long, complex, fresh, and elegant. 18.8/20 points.

The Château Canon La Gaffelière 2016 St. Emilion Grand Cru Classé offers notes of coffee, plaka, and chocolate; it has a medium to full body, good balance, abundant and excellent tannins, good structure, and a long finish. This wine requires time and holds great potential. 18.8/20 points.