Sélections Puy Arnaud - Vin de France Silt blanc BIO 2024

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Thierry Valette has always had a taste for wine; his great-grandfather owned the Pavie and Troplong-Mondot châteaux, two of the most prestigious classified growths in Saint-Émilion. In 2000, he took over this 13-hectare property in Belvès-de-Castillon (20 kilometers east of Libourne), choosing to adhere to the demanding standards of biodynamics. Asteria limestone predominates at Puy Arnaud. At the end of the 19th century, the fifteen hectares of the Clos were classified as "Premier Cru" of Saint-Émilion! These soils bring a lot of finesse, freshness, and minerality to the grapes, allowing the bouquet to rival that of the "great terroirs" (floral, spices, truffle) as it gradually develops. The range stands out for its consistency and coherence: the Pervenche cuvée, which has medium aging potential, can be enjoyed within five years for its cheerful fruitiness. Les Ormeaux releases a delicate juice, coupled with exemplary fruitiness in its delicious balance. Velvety in texture and predominantly Merlot, the grand vin is very refined in its tannic length, with well-expressed fruitiness and a stylish, very fresh finish. This is certainly one of the most accomplished cuvées on the right bank. In a blind tasting, this wine will surprise many, as it can rival other more prestigious wines. It is one of the most original wines in Bordeaux!

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Thierry Valette has owned this Castillon estate since 2000. Carefully crafted, the wine has established itself from the outset as one of the appellation's most interesting vintages, with a deep and eminently distinguished style. The vineyard, now cultivated biodynamically, confirms all expectations. In addition to the first wine, Thierry Valette offers two cuvées designed for everyday drinking (Bistrot and Rouge), which reconcile us with Bordeaux wines for immediate consumption. It is worth noting the consistency of the range and the desire to produce both wines for immediate enjoyment and wines of great depth.

Jancis Robinson

James Suckling

Andreas Larsson

About wine:

Bright golden color with youthful green highlights. Pure and lively nose revealing soft oak notes and a creaminess from the lees, combining lemongrass, lime, aromatic herbs, ripe yellow fruits, and sweet citrus. Good structure and refreshing acidity with a fine extract, young and succulent fruit, dominated by Sauvignon but rather vinous, with beautiful purity and good persistence.

Yves Beck

About wine:

Vinification in amphorae and barrels with indigenous yeasts, followed by aging in the same containers. The challenge is to work with a traditional grape variety while avoiding caricature and exuberance. The bouquet is exactly that: subtle, complex, and precise. In addition to notes of bread dough, it reveals nuances of mirabelle plums complemented by a touch of fennel. On the palate, the wine creates a link between the sweetness of the wood and the liveliness of the acidity. The result is a salty, elegant, and thirst-quenching wine. 2026-2034