It pays to have boots on the ground… it’s how we discovered this wonderful gem – a 94 point Grand Cru Classé made by Michel Rolland for under $35?!

Yes, indeed!

On our last mission to Saint-Émilion we found ourselves once again at Lard et Bouchon, a small bistro serving brilliantly executed regional classics. Their dining room, quiet and carved into the limestone of the plateau, is a perfect place to debrief and re-collect oneself post reconnaissance.

When ordering, we challenged the sommelier to bring us something we had never seen before. Something only a local would know about.

He returned with a bottle of Château Côte de Baleau 2019 Saint-Émilion. Swirling the wine revealed deep black cherry and plum aromas with femme fatale darkness to its hints of mocha and earth. One sip and the lush velour texture of the wine enveloped us with supple fruit, ripe texture, and bold flavors that went on and on. We were instantly hooked!

Decades in the trade, how had we never heard of this Château? A few well-placed phone calls revealed they’re overseen by none other than consultant Michel Rolland (Ausone, Pavie, Harlan Estates, Screaming Eagle)!

The estate of Côte de Baleau dates back to a seventh century grant by the Sun King, Louis XIV to the to the Reiffers family for their loyalty and service. It was purchased by Philippe Cuvelier and his family, well respected in Bordeaux for their stewardship of Clos Fourtet in Saint-Émilion and Poujeaux in Moulis, and they have since made much needed updates to infrastructure and the vineyard. Thoughtfully, they retained Sophie Fourcade, a descendant of the original owners, to continue managing the property.

Elevated to Grand Cru Classé status in 2012, this is the very definition of a wine that over-delivers! But we were only able to secure a small allocation. We urge you, grab as many as you can! Share it with you friends if you crave their jealousy, or keep the secret all to yourself!

94 Points – Vinous “The 2019 Côte de Baleau takes quite a few minutes to settle in the glass. It has a very concentrated bouquet of black cherries, mulberry, touches of licorice and hints of graphite. The medium-bodied palate offers sappy black fruit and fine definition. Very focused, with a sensual and substantial finish. Superb. Drink 2024-2050”