The new reference point estate in the Cotes de Castillon, Clos Les Lunelles was acquired in 2001 by Gerard and Chantal Perse. It is comprised of nearly 24 acres of vines (averaging 38 years) planted on clay and limestone soils. The 2001, a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, was cropped at a meager 20 hectoliters per hectare. The poor person’s version of Pavie and Pavie-Decesse, it possesses a saturated purple color along with splendid aromas of espresso roast, blackberry and cherry liqueur, spice box, cedar, and smoky oak. Dense, opulent, and voluptuous, this marvelously rich, concentrated offering sets a new qualitative plateau for a Cotes de Castillon. Given its low acidity, intense fruit, and breadth of flavor, it can be drunk young, or cellared for 10-12 years. It is a sleeper of the vintage ... without a doubt! This large estate, with a fabulous castle on the property, consists of 106 acres planted with 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. With wine consultant Stephane Derenoncourt in the background, this is a property to take seriously.