Category:Majestic Guides

Learn from the experts: Bordeaux's first and second wines

Our Learn from the experts segment is all about answering your burning wine questions and queries! In this addition, we look into the difference between Bordeaux's first and second wines, answered by our Master of Wine, Jane Masters.

Question: What is the difference between Bordeaux's first and second wines?

Answer: “The grand vin, or first wine, is the winery's flagship bottling, blended from the best barrels, and typically represents the highest quality and price. The second wine, also known as the second label, is made from the remaining wine that didn’t quite make it into the top blend. Despite this, the second wine can be of excellent quality, offering a more approachable, affordable option. In fact, with great vintages like 2016, second wines can be as exceptional as their grand vin counterparts but without the long ageing potential – making them ready to drink sooner. The concept of second wines dates back to the late 1800s and is believed to have originated in Bordeaux, where it allows producers to highlight the best fruit from each harvest.

One of my favourite examples of a producer making both exceptional first and second wines is Château Batailley. A Fifth Growth from the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Château Batailley has long been known for its high-quality wines. Located in the prestigious Pauillac appellation, this estate benefits from a unique terroir and has been producing wine since the 16th century. The region is home to some of the most renowned Bordeaux wines, where bottles can command hundreds or even thousands of pounds per bottle. This makes wines from producers like Château Batailley a fantastic entry point for anyone looking to explore the world of Classified Growths in Pauillac.

Château Batailley's second wine, Lions de Batailley, offers a slightly softer, less tannic profile, with the wine being more approachable earlier than its grand vin counterpart. It's an excellent value option for those wanting to enjoy a Pauillac without waiting 20 years for the wine to reach its peak.”
– Jane Masters, MW

Our featured Bordeaux first wine is the Château Batailley. From one of the oldest estates in Médoc, this wine is a true reflection of the quality that Pauillac is known for. Its first vines were planted in the 16th century. The château’s wines gained a great reputation, and it was recognised in the prestigious 1855 Bordeaux Classification as a Fifth Growth. Over the past few decades, there has been an even greater emphasis on the quality of fruit. It’s a classic Pauillac with intense flavour, great structure and ripe tannins. You’ll find it fresh and earthy, with forest floor, tobacco, cassis and chocolate notes. Enjoy it with roast lamb.

Château Batailley’s second wine, the Château Batailley 'Lions de Batailley', is also impressive for the price tag. Expect intense flavour, great structure and ripe tannins. You’ll find it fresh and earthy, with aromas of tobacco, raspberries and red cherry. Silky, smooth tannins make this a perfect pairing for roast lamb.