Seigneurs d'Aiguilhe, Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux 2018

This is the cracking second wine from Stephan von Neipperg's Château d’Aiguilhe, showing just how good wines from Castillon Côtes-de-Bordeaux can be. With around 80% Merlot and a dash of Cabernet Franc, it's got that lovely mix of sweet cigar box and ripe autumn berry aromas. On the palate, expect an intense burst of bramble fruit, all wrapped up in a velvety, smooth finish that lingers nicely. It's approachable, easy-going, and perfectly fits the bill for a good Bordeaux that doesn't need years in the cellar to show its best. Plenty to like here.

With its soft tannins, this one's perfect alongside grilled or roast lamb. Great drinking now though it'll happily sit in the cellar for another few years if you're not in a rush.

Château d'Aiguilhe sits in the Castillon appellation, often overlooked in favour of its flashier neighbours, but that's part of its charm. Owned by Stephan von Neipperg, it benefits from the same careful attention as his more prestigious estates. Castillon is basically an extension of St-Émilion, so the wines share a lot of the same characteristics - ripe Merlot fruit, balanced structure - but without the same level of hype. It's a place for well-made Bordeaux without needing the big name or price tag to match.