Atkin, who is the Fortnum & Mason ‘Online Drink Writer of the Year 2014, says he tasted and rated more than 450 wines from the world’s most famous wine region.
In his report, he gave 27 wines 96 points or more (out of 100), with two, Lafleur and Pétrus, scoring 99 and three, Cheval Blanc, Lafite and Yquem, 98 points.
For consistent quality, he singled out the communes of Margaux, Pessac-Léognan, Pomerol, Sauternes and Barsac. He adds: “This is a dream vintage for Sauternes.”
Regarding the now controversial Bordeaux en primeur campaign where historically prices are announced in tranches before the wine goes into bottle, Atkin remarks that it could be “as drawn out as the Ring Cycle,” partly because the system is “on the ropes”.
He says: “I don’t want to overstate this, but 2015 could conceivably mark the end of en primeur as we know it. It’s now or never.”
His Bordeaux Report 2015, which has tasting notes on 270 wines which he scored over 91 points, is available to download at: timatkin.com. Price: £15.
