I’ve enjoyed 2011 EMH Black Cat, Mondavi Reserve To-Kalon and R-M Panek. Etain and Dominus were also good, but not worth the tariff I’d say. I’ve been able to get some decent prices at auction, but even the well made wines tend toward the leaner more traditional BDX styling. Which can be a welcome alternative.
For a special birth year type wine, look at Abreu. Both Thorevilos and Madrona Ranch I’ve had and are great. Colgin Cariad is another great 2011 (unsurprisingly as it’s sourced in large part from those 2 vineyards as well as Abreu HM which I haven’t tried but has limited positive reviews on CT/VN). Keep your eyes peeled at auction — it appears checking my CT that I got all 3 of the above around 200-225/btl (just a tick under for the Colgin, actually).
I also think great bets basically every year are Corison, Dunn HM, (both already mentioned) and Togni.
I have been thinking of making that soup lately…will be sure to pull one of my own babies to go with it - sounds like the 2011 is in order. Thanks for your note.