For those wine lovers who are finding a bottle of Chateau Latour or Chateau Margaux 2009 a little out of their reach financially, one publication recommends an alternative.

The exceptional quality of 2009 Bordeaux has pushed prices through the roof, but the harvest was so good that second wines are providing cost-effective quality alternatives, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Second wines from the 2009 vintage are offering exceptional quality at around one third of the price of the first bottles, the publication claims.

Selected for particular recommendation is the second wine from Chateau Margaux, Pavillon Rouge.

"Winemaker Paul Pontallier believes this to be the best Pavillon Rouge he has made. The 2009 is a very forward vintage and will drink early but will improve," the news provider notes.

The latest reports from chateaux indicate that the 2010 Bordeaux is set to be another exquisite year.