If ever there were a reason to redefine the complicated Bordeaux wine classification system, Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is it. Astonishingly classed as a fifth growth, this is “a remarkably full wine that is not only rich in character but features all the hallmarks of top Pauillac wines. The chateau’s superb family pedigree (Grand Puy Lacoste is owned and managed by the Borie family, of Chateaux Ducru Beaucaillou and Haut-Batailley fame) only serves as further proof that its ranking as one of the 18 fifth growths needs to be reconsidered.

Modern investors would be wise to consider the Liv-ex rating that moved it to a third growth status in 2017. While Liv-ex does not of course have the power nor persuasion to change the official Bordeaux wine classification, it is an appropriate benchmark for those looking to purchase either futures or as an investment.

Fantastically popular in China, Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste enjoys success in Asia largely due to it sharing a name with the sportswear brand. Nicknamed “the crocodile wine”, the Château is keen to point out that any connection is coincidental.

Offering superb value for money, Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is consistently on a par with its other Pauillac neighbours. These include heavyweights such as Château Mouton Rothschild and Lafite Rothschild, and Pontet Canet and Château d’Armailhac further north. Additionally, the Borie family are keen to keep up with the latest technology and added controversial optical sorters to its cellars in 2012. Oval vats were added the same year, and vintages since then have been noticeably higher in minerality.

The terroir is also of particular note. At approximately 20 metres elevation, this gravelly outcrop (or “puy”) with its layers of varying depths of gravel mixed with sand and a little clay, bear more resemblance to terroir belonging to Medoc’s First Growths. Grand Puy Lacoste’s favourable microclimate along with high-density planting also contribute to the exceptional quality of this Bordeaux wine. Savvy futures investors should note that the best vintages are always the product of a hot and dry summer, followed by a fine late-growing season. Production is at 10,000 cases per year.