This tiny five-acre estate is now owned by Philippe Cuvelier, who has done so much at Clos Fourtet and more recently at Chateau Poujeaux in Moulis. The 2012 Grandes Murailles (100% Merlot) exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, nice, fleshy blackcurrant fruit, medium to full body, and some underlying earth and spice. The extract, length and overall purity and richness are all impressive. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.

A delicious red with plum, light earth and nut character on the nose and palate. Medium body, fine tannins and a fresh finish. Better to drink in 2017.

Light savory and bay notes flow through the core of plum and raspberry fruit, while bright sanguine and chalk accents add lift to the finish. A singed apple wood edge frames it all. Solid, with an old-school echo in the background. Best from 2016 through 2022. 750 cases made. — JM