Boyd-Cantenac are one of the most esteemed producers in Margaux. The estate makes this as a “second wine” from vines that undergo the same painstaking treatment to ensure low yields of high-quality fruit. The fruit is picked and sorted entirely by hand allowing a selection of the best fruit for use in the wine. The wine is fermented in inert containers and left to macerate on skins for a further 8-30 days after fermentation depending on the vintage. The wine is then aged in oak barrels (30-50% new) for between 12 and 24 months and racked when it has reached an optimum maturity. The blend is usually about two thirds Cabernet Sauvignon, and one third Merlot with a token amount of Cabernet Franc. It is released as one of the more opulent, and forward wines of any vintage and meant to be approachable relatively young. Never disappointing and a rather well-kept secret we think.