Even better, the 2016 Domaine de L'Aurage shows slightly better oak integration than the 2015 as well as a more classic feel in its medium to full body, seamless texture, loads of blue fruits, and complex notes of toasted bread, graphite, and spice. It’s another awesome wine from the Mitjavile family that’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for 15-20 years.

The 2016 Domaine de l’Aurage is the recently introduced Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux by Louis Mitjavile, son of François Mitjavile of Tertre-Rôteboeuf. It has a pure, seductive bouquet of strawberry pastille, morello cherries and touches of blood orange and crème de cassis. The medium-bodied palate is well balanced and offers supple tannin, a judicious sprinkling of white pepper and oregano and a feisty, joyful finish that exudes energy. There is a straightforwardness to this L’Aurage that I like. A wine determined to give pleasure. -- Neal Martin