Edition of March 23, 2026

Obituary Michel Rolland: 1947-2026

Decanter reports the death of Michel Rolland, the influential Bordeaux-based enologist and global consultant, who died suddenly on March 20 aged 78. His career made him one of the most prominent figures associated with modern Bordeaux winemaking.

Source: decanter.com Estates and PeopleVineyard and Cellar

The Premiers Grands Crus Classés and 'stars' of Saint-Émilion

After 2 years of élevage, Terre de Vins names Ausone, Cheval Blanc and Angélus among the standout 2023 Saint-Émilion properties and comments on the Premiers Grands Crus Classés. It says the uneven vintage offers informed consumers more accessible successes than 2022.

Source: terredevins.com Château AngélusChâteau Cheval Blanc Saint-Émilion The VintageRules and Classifications

This Left Bank Bordeaux Rivals the World’s Best Merlots

Arjen Pen’s Marpaout 2022, the first vintage of his Left Bank Bordeaux, held its own alongside Petrus, Masseto, Angélus and Le Macchiole’s Messorio at a private tasting in Dubai in May 2025, according to Robb Report. The wine’s regional allocation then sold out.

Source: Robb Report Château AngélusPetrus The VintageEn Primeur and La Place

Squaring the Circle

According to terredevins.com, Bordeaux’s 2023 vintage is a “contemporary classic” shaped by heavy mildew pressure, humidity and heat, and a less extreme summer than 2022. Its best wines show adjusted maturity, concentration without excess, elegance and length.

Source: terredevins.com The Vintage

"Bordeaux in Motion": an evening organized to discuss the future of Bordeaux wine

According to Le Figaro Vin, Cella Fuga Club is organizing “Bordeaux en mouvement” on Tuesday, March 24, in Paris 8, with a conference-debate on Bordeaux wine’s future followed by a tasting of 3 wines.

Source: Le Figaro Vin The New Bordeaux

One of the Greatest Oenologists of all Time: Michel Rolland Has Died

Michel Rolland has died; Falstaff describes him as one of the world’s most influential enologists and one of the greatest enologists of all time.

Source: Falstaff Estates and People