First used as a fort during the 16th century, Chateau Les Grands Chenas was sold to Bernard Magrez in 1998. Magrez spared no expense turning the chateau into one of the top Cru Bourgeois properties in the Medoc. The wine is ripe, rich and modern in style with smooth tannins and vibrant red-berry flavors. 60% Merlot 40% Cabernet Sauvignon

JS94: A fresh and focused 2020 with blackcurrants, bark and walnut aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied with very well integrated tannins and a firm and bright finish.

VM92: The 2020 Les Grands Chênes is terrific, just as it was en primeur. Blackberry jam, gravel, incense, tobacco, scorched earth and espresso saturate the palate with remarkable depth. This deep, flavorful Médoc is a tremendous effort from Bernard Magrez and his team. My only complaint is the absurdly heavy bottle, which is completely out of touch with today's world.