Saint-Julien, Bordeaux | Little Sibling of Château Ducru-Beaucauillou | 92 AG - 91 JA

Meet the new kid on the block with a serious pedigree. Formerly known as Lalande-Borie, Le Petit Ducru was launched back in 2019 from a strict selection of young vines from the legendary Château Ducru-Beaucaillou. This is a plush, immediately charming Saint-Julien, bursting with succulent dark cherry, plum, and mocha, all edged with a gourmet touch of chocolate shavings and black pepper spice.

While it’s open-knit and delicious now (Antonio Galloni’s 92pts note its "considerable immediacy"), don’t mistake its charm for simplicity. There’s a classic Saint-Julien structure underneath, with fine but firm tannins that lend a crunchy, bright energy. Jane Anson (91pts) calls it "extremely good quality," and it’s the perfect bottle to open while your grand vins slumber. Decant for an hour and pair with roast chicken or mushroom pasta for a taste of Ducru magic without the wait (and price tag!)