Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux, Clos Puy Arnaud Grand Vin

Beyond the big names and famous appellations, Bordeaux can sometimes struggle to establish itself. However, you should stop worrying about the “right postal code” and start seeking out the true hidden gems of the region. Clos Puy Arnaud is one such gem in Castillon, a satellite appellation of Saint-Émilion on the Right Bank. The 2016 “Grand Vin” combines the always elegant and delicate style of Thierry Valette’s wines, who belongs to a renowned Bordeaux family associated with prestigious estates such as Château Pavie and Château Troplong Mondot. This is a blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, showing aromas of red and black fruit, smoke, and anise, with very refined tannins—an example of what the Right Bank of Bordeaux can offer to those who love energy and vibrancy in their wines.