Regarding the most substantial price increases in Bordeaux wines in recent years, Clerc Milon undoubtedly ranks among the top (in percentage terms). The price of its grand vin has nearly doubled within just a few years. Although prices have risen across the board, it remains in high demand.

The second label, Pastourelle, was introduced in 2009, making its history relatively short and less circulated compared to other classified growths' second labels. It is less commonly seen among wine enthusiasts. Apart from a certain merchant currently offering the 2009 vintage at a 32% discount on their official website (still priced at around $390), anyone who previously bought it at the original price of $580 might feel like they’ve drawn the short straw... leaving them with nothing but a sense of regret.

Clerc Milon is a familiar name to many, often enjoyed and well-known. "Pastourelle" in French refers to a traditional dance, depicting the romantic "Boom Cha Cha" between a knight and a shepherdess. The estate belongs to Baron Philippe de Rothschild's "Five Arrows" portfolio, alongside Château Mouton Rothschild and Château d'Armailhac. Although Clerc Milon is classified as a Cru Bourgeois, its prices have reached the level of a Classified Growth. The grand vin from excellent vintages is approaching the price of "a golden bull" (a colloquial term for a high price).

Thus, the current offer of the 2010 second label for around $300 represents exceptional value. The winemaking team at Clerc Milon includes Jean-Emmanuel Danjoy, the winemaker of Opus One, and the winemaking methods and craftsmanship are on par with those used for the grand vin. This trend reflects the broader movement among renowned estates to further elevate the quality and price of their grand vins. Due to stricter grape selection, more grapes that would have previously qualified for the grand vin now go into the second label, resulting in an overall improvement in the quality of second labels. In outstanding vintages, they can even rival the quality of lesser vintages or younger grand vins that are not yet ready to drink.