Looking for a Rothschild wine without the First-Growth price tag? Something that echoes the winemaking of Mouton-Rothschild or Opus One, at a price that doesn’t merit a “special occasion?”

If so, dear Operative, you are not going to want this deal to ‘Pastourelle’ you by…

The trio of 93 point scores had us intrigued. Antonio Galloni of Vinous even singled it out as “A ridiculously gorgeous second wine. Best of all… a tremendous value.”

But when we opened it at HQ, our Agents were left speechless. Plump red and purple fruit framed by lithe tannins, hints of mocha and spice in a rounded frame with no hard edges - reminiscent of the muscular style of its better-known neighbor, Mouton, for less than a tank of gas? Are you kidding me?!

There is good reason – it’s the same winemaker.

Château Clerc Milon is nestled between Mouton-Rothschild and Lafite-Rothschild. Purchased in 1970 by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, the viticulture and winemaking are overseen by Opus One alum and Mouton winemaker Jean-Emmanuel Danjoy. Rounding out the team is none other than Èric Boissenot, a name that may be familiar as the consultant for four of the five First-Growths!

And that’s not to say anything about the phenomenal 2020 vintage. The third in a trio of great vintages for Pauillac, ideal weather conditions and lots of sunshine made for perfectly balanced wines with loads of ripe fruit intensity underpinned by firm texture and a supple tannic grip.

‘Pastourelle,’ the property’s second wine, is made from the younger vines, farmed with the same dedication to terroir and made with the same care and attention. More approachable in its youth (it is spectacularly delicious now!), if you’ve ever wanted to taste the power and elegance of a Rothschild Bordeaux without breaking the bank, this is your chance!

We plan on grabbing a case or two to drink over the next 5-7 years while the Bordeaux and Napa Cabs in our cellars reach peak maturity. We highly recommend you do the same.

93 Points – Vinous “The 2020 Pastourelle de Clerc Milon is fabulous. Rich, ample and explosive, the 2020 packs a huge punch. A rush of inky dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, spice and mocha builds as this sumptuous Pauillac shows off its immense charm. Merlot takes the leading role. This is a ridiculously gorgeous second wine. Best of all, this should be a tremendous value. Drink 2023-2030”

93 Points – Decanter “Perfumed, raspberry and strawberry fruit, red and floral, pretty on the nose, roses and sweet strawberries. Lithe and supple, this has a nice bounce to it, plump, super-juicy and fun, gorgeous sweetness and plushness to it, round and friendly. Lovely push of red fruits with a hint of herbal medicinal edges at the back and some very soft spicing. You can’t help but smile when you drink this. Approachable, very complete and full. A great glass of wine here. Drink 2024-2028”

93 Points – James Suckling “Currant and lead pencil. Pure. Peach skin. Medium-bodied with firm and polished tannins and a savory finish. Slightly straightforward, but I like the clarity and brightness. Drink after 2026”