News — Claret

French winemakers have been given the green light to change a centuries-old tradition: a new national law passed in late 2025 now permits the addition of sugar (as grape must) to dry wines, a revolutionary step, especially for Bordeaux.

As the 2023 En Primeur campaign approaches, a consensus is forming among top critics, including JamesSuckling.com: the 2023 Bordeaux vintage is a triumph of "classic" style, defined by moderate alcohol, freshness, and an elegance reminiscent of the great vintages of the 1980s.