Beyond the Hype: Welcome to the 2025 Bordeaux En Primeur Campaign
(Updated 26.05.26)
26.05.26
As the 2025 Bordeaux En Primeur campaign moves into its next phase, the sheer consistency of this vintage is becoming the main talking point. It is evident that 2025 has produced wines of immense character, balancing high-toned aromatics with a structured elegance that will delight claret lovers for decades.
The market has responded very positively to the early releases, largely because the estates have listened to the call for realistic opening levels. For the collector, this presents a rare opportunity to acquire top-tier wines from a landmark year at levels that offer a genuine entry point to the vintage.
Campaign Highlights & Key Releases
Last week saw a significant wave of releases as the campaign kicked into full swing, with critics confirming that 2025 is a truly great year across both the Left and Right Banks:
Château Lafite-Rothschild: The highlight of last week and the first of the First Growths to release. Critic Neal Martin has awarded it a potential perfect score, noting it is "blessed with extraordinary harmony." It is positioned as one of the most compelling options among the great Lafite vintages currently on the market.
Château Cheval Blanc: One of the most "intellectual" wines of the vintage. Jane Anson has awarded it a potential 98-100 points, praising its extraordinary aromatic lift and the cooling, saline finish provided by the Cabernet Franc.
Château Palmer: A sensational Margaux, with Neal Martin awarding 97-99 points. He remarks on its "velvety texture and haunting perfume," noting that it retains quintessential elegance despite the power of the vintage.
Château Lynch-Bages: Another Pauillac favourite released last week, the 2025 is a totally classic expression. It is expected to challenge the estate's greatest vintages and remains a must-have for serious collectors.
Château Angélus: Continuing its shift towards a more refined style, this was described by Lisa Perrotti-Brown as a "masterclass in precision," earning 97-99 points.
The Barton Family Estates: Both Langoa Barton and Léoville Barton were launched last week. They maintain their signature classicism and DNA while showcasing a new level of focus and finesse.
Château Pontet-Canet: Hailed for its "remarkable purity and transparency," William Kelley awards this 96-98 points, suggesting it is one of the most soulful wines of the year.
Exceptional Value & Smart Buys
The 2025 vintage is particularly strong for those looking for high quality at accessible price points:
Château Laroque: A standout success and a top value pick. Georgina Hindle (Decanter, 96 pts) describes it as "smooth and so silky," while Neal Martin (Vinous, 93-95 pts) calls it one of the best Laroques so far, noting the limestone soil lends the wine "another dimension." James Suckling and The Wine Advocate both highlight its attractive balance and saline finish. Under David Suire, this estate is truly hitting its stride.
Château Haut-Batailley: May be the best vintage ever produced at this estate. Neal Martin described it as a "marvellous contribution to the vintage."
Château Talbot: A firm British favourite, the 2025 is a "return to the classics," with critics praising its cedary, tobacco-inflected fruit and sturdy structure.
Château Montlandrie: From the Durantou family, this wine is exceptional. Galloni described it as a wine of "dimension and energy."
Château Ormes de Pez: Drawing comparisons to the legendary 2016 vintage, Neal Martin noted its "newfound fluidity," which has taken the wine to a new level.
Château Labégorce: Emerging as a "smart buy." Rivalling its neighbouring classified growths, offering plush fruit and immediate charm.
Looking Ahead
We expect a slightly quieter period over the next few days due to holidays in the UK and France. However, the momentum will pick up quickly in early June with highly anticipated releases from La Mission Haut-Brion (2nd June), Mouton-Rothschild (3rd June), and Beychevelle (4th June).
Neil Pinel - Managing Director
Terms and Conditions
Ordering: Wines will NOT be available for purchase on our website this year. Instead, please place your order directly with me by email to neil@dunells.com
Offers - Subject to availability
Delivery - Whites 2026/27, Reds 2028/29
Prices - Include Freight, Duty & GST
Payment - Goods will be invoiced on receipt of order. Payment as per our normal T&Cs.
Disclaimer - Prices of wine and spirits can go up or down. We are not liable for any losses incurred should any wine decrease in value from the date of purchase.
E&OE - Errors & Omissions Excepted