The 2016 d'Arcins has quite a high-toned but nicely detailed bouquet with iodine-tinged black fruit, touches of mint and pot pourri. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, a fine line of acidity, smooth in texture with a very cohesive, almost Pauillac-like finish. Excellent. Tasted at the Cru Bourgeois tasting in London.

87-89. Barrel Sample. Owned by the Castel family, this estate has made a wine that is packed with fruit and surprisingly soft tannins. The palate is juicy, with a toasty edge and a light, bright black-currant flavor. It is likely to age quickly.