From his 30-acre estate on the high limestone plateau of the C?tes de Castillon, conscientious and meticulous proprietor Thierry Valette has produced a blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dense ruby/purple, with a slightly evolved nose of cedar wood, forest floor and herbs as well as loads of blackberry and licorice-infused fruit, this 2005 is medium to full-bodied, powerful, and rich, but the nose showed just a tiny trace of oxidation. Drink this big wine over the next 5-6 years.