The Estate
Clos Puy Arnaud traces its origins back to the 19th century, perched on the heights of Belvès-de-Castillon, on the doorstep of Saint-Émilion. Already renowned at the time for the quality of its wines, the estate has weathered the decades while maintaining a handcrafted, respectful approach to viticulture. In 2000, Thierry Valette—heir to a long line of winemakers—took over the property with a clear vision: to restore the prestige of this exceptional terroir by blending tradition with modernity.
Set atop the limestone hillsides of the Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, Clos Puy Arnaud benefits from a rich, living soil made up of red clay and limestone rock, providing an ideal foundation for Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The estate has been farmed organically and biodynamically for over a decade, with a deep respect for the ecosystem and natural rhythms. Originally spread across 15 fragmented hectares in the commune, the vineyard has been streamlined to about ten hectares around the winery, allowing a sharper focus on quality.
Today, Clos Puy Arnaud stands as a benchmark among Bordeaux’s biodynamic wines, celebrated for its finesse and vibrant character. Each vintage reflects meticulous work, combining low-intervention methods, gentle vinifications, and carefully managed aging to reveal the authenticity of both fruit and terroir. The estate continues to explore new avenues toward crafting wines that are ever purer and more sincere—driven by a forward-looking philosophy where precision meets environmental commitment.
The Wine
Vineyard: Plots located on a clay-limestone plateau, organically and biodynamically farmed (certified by Demeter and Biodyvin).
Harvest: Hand-picked.
Vinification: Whole berries are gravity-fed into wooden and concrete vats. Cold pre-fermentation maceration under inert gas, followed by natural fermentation at low temperature (max 25°C).
Aging: 6 months — one-third in barrels (15% new), one-third in demi-muids, and one-third in amphorae, followed by a 3-month blend in uncoated concrete vats. Not fined.
Tasting
The grand vin of Clos Puy Arnaud offers a concentrated nose of dark fruits with subtle spicy notes. On the palate, it is structured, with fine tannins and good freshness. The overall profile is balanced, precise, and shows strong aging potential.
