Wine Enthusiast 90 - BEST BUY
"This rich, full-bodied, softly textured wine is generous to a fault. Powerful tannins are cushioned by ripe black fruits that spread comfortably through the wine. Drink from 2022"

James Suckling 90
" A delicious and balanced Bordeaux Superieur with currants, dried earth and hints of dried herbs. Its medium-bodied with light, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Drink now."

The Wine
90 Merlot, 10 Cabernet Franc Limestone and clay soil 35+ year old vines De-stemmed Aged in 65 tank, 35 barrels for 18 months all from the village of
Galgon in the district of Fronsac

The Estate
The chteau buildings date from 1892, and resemble a cross between an 18th century English country house and a luxury mediterranean villa all whitewashed and topped with a red-tiled roof. The vineyards originally belonged to another estate, and were purchased by the Avril family some years later. Recently, Bernard Avril has invested considerable time and effort in improving both vineyard practices and winemaking, with the result that this is now a respected source of quality Bordeaux at remarkably affordable prices.

The secret here is location. The wines are labelled Bordeaux Suprieur, but the grapes are grown close to, and in some cases, over the border into better known Fronsac. The clay and limestone slopes and microclimatic influences are very similar to the terroir found in nearby Saint Emilion. Not surprisingly, Merlot works very well here.

Farming Practice
Sustainable