The 2009 vintage in Bordeaux is the vintage of my career. The reds have such glorious harmony and balance even though they are some of the richest and most structured ever. When I think of this modern wonder, I compare 2009 to such great years as 1982, 1989, 1990, 2000, and 2005. But I think it is better.

This unique character or style in the 2009 reds, of course, can mostly be attributed to the exceptional growing period. Temperatures were hot but not too hot in the summer. It was dry but not too dry. And it was cool at night. This maintained acidity in the grapes. There were even light rains on September 15 that rejuvenated the vines just before picking.  JAMES SUCKLING

First, and most importantly, for some Médocs and Graves, 2009 may turn out to be the finest vintage I have tasted in 32 years of covering Bordeaux. From top to bottom, 2009 is not as consistent as 2005, but the peaks of quality in 2009 may turn out to be historic. ROBERT PARKER

Our first shipment of 2009 Bordeaux has landed and despite the high prices of many of the classified wines, there is, as always in a region this large, good value to be found.  The six wines on tasting include the 5th growths Camensac and Belgrave as well as Sociando Mallet which is consistently one of the very best Cru Bourgeois.  And most of these wines are well under $100. PHILIP, Prince Wine Store