Clos Puy Arnaud 2014

Bettane & Desseauve

About the wine:

A refined, energetic tannin profile with a distinguished, briny finish.

About the estate:

Thierry Valette has always had a passion for wine; his great-grandfather owned Châteaux Pavie and Troplong-Mondot, two of Saint-Émilion’s most prestigious classified growths. In 2000, he took over this 13-hectare estate in Belvès-de-Castillon (20 kilometers east of Libourne), committing to the rigorous standards of biodynamic viticulture. Asterian limestone predominates at Puy Arnaud. In fact, in the late 19th century, the Clos’s fifteen hectares were classified as a “Premier Cru” of Saint-Émilion! These soils impart great 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 wine range stands out for its consistency and coherence: the Pervenche cuvée, with moderate aging potential, is best enjoyed within 5 years to savor its lively fruit. Les-Ormeaux offers a delicately textured wine, paired with exemplary fruitiness and a rich, balanced flavor. Velvety in texture and predominantly Merlot, this grand vin is highly refined in its tannic length, with well-defined fruit and a stylish, refreshing finish. This is undoubtedly one of the most accomplished vintages on the Right Bank. In a blind tasting, this wine will surprise many, as it can hold its own against other, more prestigious wines. It is one of the most original wines from the Bordeaux region!

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

The 2014 Clos Puy Arnaud has a ripe, pure bouquet with unforgettable aromas of black cherry, iodine, and violet... that you won’t want to forget either. The palate is well-balanced with succulent ripe black cherries and raspberries, a lively acidity, fresh citrus notes, and a lovely finish. I love the hint of blood orange in the aftertaste! A wine that stands a cut above its peers and comes highly recommended.

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

About the wine:

With an admirable structure and a deep, intense palate, this 2014 stands out among the wines of Castillon. Intense, with concentrated fruit and a superbly balanced aging profile, it is a magnificent wine.

About the estate:

Thierry Valette has owned this estate in Castillon since 2000. Carefully crafted, the wine established itself from the outset as one of the appellation’s most interesting wines, with a deep and eminently refined style. The vineyard, now cultivated using biodynamic methods, is living up to all expectations. In addition to the flagship wine, Thierry Valette offers two “everyday” cuvées (Bistrot and Rouge) that restore our faith in Bordeaux wines meant for immediate enjoyment. It’s worth noting the consistency of the lineup and the winemaker’s commitment to producing both wines for immediate pleasure and wines of great depth.

Wine Enthusiast

About the wine:

Owner Thierry Valette has worked his way through the Right Bank (the Pavie family, owners of Troplong Mondot) and, as a consultant, has traveled the world. Here, he offers a delicious, juicy wine with fine tannins and ripe red fruit. It features notes of mint and spices, as well as balanced acidity. Enjoy this lovely wine starting in 2018.

Jancis Robinson

James Suckling

Le Figaro vins

About the wine:

A dense, concentrated wine with a slightly vegetal character, freshness, and a touch of acidity. Over time, the wine’s beautiful density will allow it to develop smoothly.