Edition of May 20, 2026

Bordeaux’s bubble bursts, and lessons for Cape wine

Bordeaux's wine investment market has collapsed after its en primeur model filled with wines bought for investment rather than consumption, leaving buyers unable to sell at their anticipated profits.

Source: wine.co.za En Primeur and La PlaceThe Fine Wine Market

A French merchant lists bottles of Château Margaux from 1948 to 1998

On May 19, 2026, French wine merchant SoDivin said it had Château Margaux bottles from 1948 to 1998 in stock and available for immediate shipping.

Source: Vinetur Château Margaux Margaux Trade and Tariffs

Lafleur released as Vin de France for the first time

Lafleur has been released en primeur as Vin de France for the first time with the 2025 vintage, priced at €840 including tax, after the Guinaudeau family stopped claiming the Pomerol appellation to address climate change.

Source: terredevins.com Château Lafleur Pomerol En Primeur and La PlaceThe Vintage

Cantenac Brown hands the reins to Romain Courtier

Since early 2026, Romain Courtier has served as managing director of Margaux Third Growth Château Cantenac Brown, succeeding José Sanfins.

Source: terredevins.com Château Cantenac Brown Margaux Estates and PeopleEn Primeur and La Place

Bordeaux Grands Crus Weekend, 20th Edition (sponsored)

Terre de Vins promotes the 20th edition of the Week-End des Grands Crus de Bordeaux, taking place June 5 to 7, 2026. The program includes a large tasting at Hangar 14 with more than 100 châteaux presenting the 2023 vintage plus another vintage, alongside masterclasses and wine-gastronomy activities.

Source: terredevins.com The VintageCritics and Scores