Every so often, we come across a parcel of Bordeaux which reminds us how much value can still be found away from the grander names. Château Valentin is just such a wine:  A superb little château, but their 2022 vintage packs a tremendous punch in terms of quality and flavours that remind us of why we love good claret. 

Located in Blaye, just across the Gironde from Margaux and St.-Julien, Valentin has been in the Revaire family since 1892. The property began with just six hectares of vines and has been gradually enlarged over successive generations to its present 17 hectares.

The 2022 is a blend of 80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Malbec, drawn from vines averaging some 38 years of age. The estate has been in organic conversion since 2019.

There is nothing elaborate about the winemaking here, which is rather the point. The grapes are mechanically harvested and traditionally vinified, with two to three weeks in vat, before fermentation and maturation in stainless steel. The emphasis is firmly on the fruit and character of the vineyard rather than oak or winemaking artifice.

At £95 per dozen in bond, this is unusually good value: mature vines, a long-established family property and a proper, traditionally made Bordeaux for just £7.92 per bottle before duty and VAT.  Our offer price falls to £85 per case on orders of two of more cases, and £75 per case on orders of 5+ cases.

It is exactly the sort of wine we like to uncover — affordable enough to drink regularly, but with considerably more provenance and substance than its modest price might suggest.  With the Glorious Twelfth signalling that autumn is just around the corner, you could be enjoying this by the start of pheasant season, and throughout the winter ahead!

Please let us know if you would like to place an order.

Offered ex-Bordeaux, landing in autumn 2026.