Clos Puy Arnaud Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux 2022

The 2022 Clos Puy Arnaud is a dense, extroverted wine. Inky dark fruit, licorice, menthol and cloves are all amplified. Usually Clos Puy Arnaud is more refined, but in 2022, the vintage dominates and speaks loudly. Even so, this is a compelling offering. I look forward to tasting it with bottle age.

Sleek and polished, with alluring notes of blackberry puree and warmed cassis that glide through, while fine-grained tannins, a buried chalky spine and a gilding of sweet tobacco add range and length. Shows a mouthwatering floral echo at the end. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2026 through 2038.

In comparison to the 2021, the 2022 Clos Puy Arnaud, a blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, is less introverted and austere, offering up aromas of dark berries, spices, mulberries and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, generously extracted and concentrated, it's deep and lively and structured with velvety tannins, concluding with a long, delicately spicy and fresh finish. This estate is progressing toward producing more refined and vibrant wines, though this one will benefit from some time in the cellar to integrate its élevage fully.