Wine 1979 Bordeaux

Weather Conditions of the 1979 Vintage

The weather in 1979 played a pivotal role in shaping the Bordeaux vintage, offering a mix of challenges and blessings. The year began with a harsh, wet, and cold winter that lingered into early spring, delaying vine development. By mid-April, warmer temperatures finally coaxed the buds awake, only for late-month chills to test their endurance. May brought a shift with wetter, warmer conditions, setting the stage for flowering around June 12 under near-ideal warmth. July continued this positive trend with settled, warm days, raising hopes among winemakers for a stellar vintage. However, August disappointed with cooler-than-average temperatures that rarely climbed above 86°F, slowing the ripening process for an unusually large crop. Fortunately, the summer remained dry, with just six inches of rain falling between June and September, sparing the vines from rot. September offered two brief warm spells, nudging grape maturity forward just in time for the harvest, which kicked off on October 2 and wrapped up around October 24. Despite a rainy interruption on October 13, the conditions favored a high-yielding harvest, resulting in 1979 Bordeaux wines that leaned toward elegance over intensity.

Left Bank

On Bordeaux’s Left Bank, the 1979 vintage shines with understated sophistication, particularly in regions like Graves and Margaux. Graves, also known as Pessac-Léognan, emerged as a standout, earning an "Above Average to Excellent" rating of 88R from The Wine Advocate Vintage Guide. These wines, ready to drink now, offer a refined balance that reflects the region’s gravelly soils and meticulous winemaking. Buyers looking to purchase 1979 Bordeaux will find Graves wines that still hold their own, with subtle fruit and a silky texture that make them a delight for immediate enjoyment. Margaux, rated at 87R, also impresses with its graceful profile. Notable mentions like Château Margaux and Kirwan reveal a vintage capable of charm, with floral notes and soft tannins that elevate the drinking experience. Other Left Bank areas, such as St. Julien, Pauillac, and St. Estèphe, scored a solid 85R, delivering harmonious wines that, while past their peak, retain a rustic appeal. For those exploring 1979 Bordeaux vintage options, Pichon-Lalande from Pauillac stands out as a potential treasure, marking the beginning of a new era under Didier Cuvelier’s leadership.

Right Bank

The Right Bank of Bordeaux in 1979 truly steals the spotlight, with Pomerol leading the charge as the vintage’s crown jewel. Rated "Above Average to Excellent" at 86R by The Wine Advocate, Pomerol produced some of the most memorable wines of the year, headlined by the exceptional Château Lafleur. This iconic wine, dubbed the "wine of the vintage," boasts a Robert Parker rating of 98+, showcasing its depth, power, and lingering finesse. For collectors eager to buy 1979 Bordeaux, Lafleur is a rare prize that embodies the Right Bank’s triumph in this vintage. St. Emilion, rated at 84R, offers balanced wines with approachable fruit, though they lack the intensity of Pomerol’s stars. Highlights like Ausone surprise with their resilience, outperforming peers like Figeac in recent tastings. Even Pétrus, while lighter than usual, delivers a poised elegance that appeals to fans of subtle complexity. The Right Bank’s success in 1979 lies in its ability to harness the vintage’s massive yield into wines that remain pleasurable, making it a prime choice for Bordeaux wine enthusiasts today.

Sauternes : Sweet Wines of the 1979 Vintage

The sweet wines of Sauternes in 1979 present a mixed but intriguing picture. Rated an average 75R by The Wine Advocate, this vintage faced challenges with a late harvest beginning in mid-October and heavy rain from October 23 diluting concentration. While not a top-tier year for Sauternes, some estates managed to craft enjoyable bottles that defy expectations. Wines like Yquem and Climens stand out, trotting along nicely with enough botrytised fruit to please fans of Bordeaux’s dessert wines. Unlike the blockbuster 1971 or 1975 vintages, 1979 Sauternes leans toward modesty, offering a lighter, more accessible style. For buyers considering 1979 Bordeaux vintage sweet wines, these selections provide a chance to enjoy a delicate sweetness without the intensity of richer years. While not a vintage to seek out exclusively, the best Sauternes from 1979 remain a pleasant surprise for those who appreciate subtlety in their glass.

Critic’s Reviews

When it comes to vintage wine ratings, the 1979 Bordeaux vintage earns praise from Robert Parker and The Wine Advocate for its top performers. Château Lafleur leads the pack with an extraordinary 98+ rating, a testament to its robust structure and lasting appeal. This Pomerol masterpiece is a must-have for anyone looking to buy 1979 Bordeaux wines with pedigree. The Wine Advocate Vintage Guide further highlights the vintage’s strengths, rating Graves at 88R and Margaux at 87R, both "Above Average to Excellent" and ready to drink. Pomerol follows closely at 86R, while St. Julien, Pauillac, and St. Estèphe earn a respectable 85R, and St. Emilion rounds out the list at 84R. Even Sauternes, though less celebrated at 75R, offers hidden gems for the curious buyer. These ratings underscore the vintage’s ability to deliver quality in select pockets, making 1979 Bordeaux a vintage worth exploring for its standout stars and balanced offerings.

Why Buy 1979 Bordeaux Wines ?

So, why should you buy 1979 Bordeaux wines ? This vintage offers a compelling blend of history, value, and charm that appeals to both seasoned collectors and casual enthusiasts. Unlike more heralded years, 1979 Bordeaux flew under the radar, resulting in wines that were originally priced to move and remain an affordable entry into vintage Bordeaux today. The standout Château Lafleur, with its near-perfect Parker rating, is a collector’s dream, while wines from Graves and Margaux provide immediate drinking pleasure with their refined profiles. For those seeking Bordeaux wine with character, the 1979 vintage delivers a graceful elegance that reflects a challenging yet rewarding year. Its massive harvest ensured a wide range of options, from the rustic pleasures of the Left Bank to the bold highlights of the Right Bank. Ready to drink now, these wines invite you to experience a moment in Bordeaux’s past without the need for further cellaring. Whether you are building a collection or simply want to savor a piece of winemaking heritage, purchasing 1979 Bordeaux at the best price is a decision that promises satisfaction and discovery in every sip.