2019 Chateau du Vallier AOC Cotes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux

The most recent purchase of the Dulon family, this estate on the slopes near the city of Cadillac has produced a wine with swathes of juicy fruits, rich tannins and a perfumed character. It will develop well and be ready to drink from 2023.

90 points Wine Enthusiast

Château du Vallier is a traditional family estate in the Côtes de Bordeaux, producing wines that highlight the value and character of Bordeaux's Right Bank. Combining generations of local knowledge with modern vineyard practices, the estate crafts approachable, well balanced wines that consistently overdeliver for their price.

The vineyards are planted on clay and limestone soils, where Merlot thrives alongside Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The warm 2019 vintage produced beautifully ripe fruit with excellent concentration, while cool evenings preserved freshness and structure, resulting in a wine that is generous, polished and unmistakably Bordeaux.

The colour is a deep ruby red with youthful garnet hues. Aromas of blackberry, black cherry and plum are complemented by cedar, sweet spice and subtle earthy notes. The palate is supple and generous, layering ripe dark fruits over fine tannins and fresh acidity. Hints of cocoa, liquorice and dried herbs add complexity before a long, smooth finish that delivers impressive balance and drinkability.

A superb match for roast lamb, beef bourguignon, duck confit or mushroom and thyme pie. Drinking beautifully now while offering the structure to continue evolving over the next five to eight years.