Chateau Franc Maillet

The history of this estate dates back 3 generations to when Jean-Baptiste Arpin purchased a hectare of land in Pomerol. The family now own four properties in the Libournais totalling 29 hectares, of which the jewel is the 5.8 hectare Château Franc Maillet. The estates are run by Gérard who was joined by his son Gaël in 1999. The wine is a blend of 80% Merlot, aged for 20 months in 50% new oak and 20% Cabernet Franc, which is aged in tank to maintain its fruity character. The Cuvée Jean-Baptiste made at the estate has gained very fine reviews (and a price to match), but the ‘ordinary’ wine is very fine and for the moment remains something of an insider’s secret.