Bordeaux 2014: Château Gazin and the Sauternes estates launch the primeurs campaign

A group of Sauternes estates, including Doisy-Daëne and Doisy-Védrines, launched the 2014 Bordeaux campaign. They were joined by the first big names in red wine: Gazin and Prieuré-Lichine.

Several Médoc estates classified as Crus Bourgeois (or equivalent), such as Sénéjac, Cambon la Pelouse and d'Arsac, also released their wine this week. This choice reflects the practice of the thirteen Rendez-vous Médoc estates, which since 2012 has consisted of releasing wines early and at stable prices.

For the moment, prices have remained close to those of last year, or slightly higher: the bottle of Château Gazin came out at a price of €36, an increase of 4.2 % compared to 2013, and that of Prieuré-Lichine went on sale at €22, up 20.4 %. In 2008, it was marketed at a price of 18 €.

The Tour Blanche in Sauternes was the only decrease observed on April 14, with an exit price of €26.40, or nearly 15 % less than last year.

In addition, Château Doisy-Daëne in Barsac released its 2014 vintage at a price (€26.40) equivalent to 2013, while the price of its “sister” estate, Doisy-Védrines, increased by 11 % to reach €22. Château Suduiraut has not significantly changed its release price (€42) either.

For the moment, the first reactions have been discreet. Paul Marus of Corney & Barrow told decanter.com: "We're still waiting for a release that will create a consumer click, a 'big name' at a price that consumers won't be able to say no to. »

Given the lack of enthusiasm for the last three en primeur campaigns, the pressure is high and consumers want a good reason to buy the 2014 Bordeaux.

During the tasting week, several châteaux were reluctant to reduce their prices, but the weakness of the European currency could be favorable to buyers outside the euro zone.

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Jane Anson

Decanter