2022 Chateau La Vallee Montagne St. Emilion

This classic petit chateau sits in the heart of the Montagne-Saint-Emilion, the largest of the so-called satellites of Bordeaux that fan east of the river Gironde. For the last century, Chateau La Vallee has been stewarded by the Guimberteau family, who in recent years has converted the estate to organic viticulture. True to form in every way, this is mostly merlot, with added cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon for structure and depth. Still somewhat youthful, this powerful red offers a rush of violet plummy fruit, with hints of roasted coffee and warm spices. Bordeaux isn't boring! These days, it's one of the great values in wine.