La Mondotte 1er Grand Cru Classé (B), Saint-Émilion

Joseph-Hubert von Neipperg bought Clos de l’Oratoire, Château La Mondotte, and Château Canon la Gaffelière in 1971. However, it wasn’t until his son, Stefan von Neipperg arrived in Saint-Émilion in 1985 that the quality of the wines began to improve dramatically, beginning with Canon la Gaffelière.

In 1995, at the renamed 4.45ha La Mondotte von Neipperg—convinced that the limestone/clay terroir could produce great wine—began dramatically reducing yields. Together with the little-known winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt, he began making small quantities of what has become one of Bordeaux's most sought after wines. These days they have cut back on the 100% new oak and this certified organic 80% merlot / 20% cabernet franc wine made from 60-year-old vines has never been better.