The 2018 Arnauld was tasted from two bottles. The first, I suspect, was just not showing correctly. The second is much more promising. It has a very well defined and focused bouquet of vibrant blackberry and wild strawberry fruit, and the oak is very well integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins that belie the density of this Haut-Médoc. Seamless in texture, it offers precise, mineral-driven black fruit on the finish. A contender for Cru Bourgeois of the vintage.

This ripe, juicy wine comes from a vineyard planted around a medieval priory. The wine has spice, ripe tannins and attractive black-currant and red-berry fruits. The winning combination should age well, so drink from 2023.

From the Haut-Médoc and based on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, the 2018 Château Arnauld has a juicy, elegant, floral style as well as plenty of red and blue fruits, a kiss of cedarwood, medium to light body, and a lively, balanced texture. It gains richness with time in the glass, and this fresh, lively, well-made Haut-Médoc will keep for 5-7 years, if not longer.