(90-92 points) Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Les Argileuses has fragrant truffles, potpourri and new leather notions over a core of baked cherries, mulberries and blueberry compote. Full, concentrated and packed with savory layers, it has a soft texture and a nice long finish.

There are two Côtes de Castillon releases from this estate. Looking first at the 2018 Château Le Rey Les Argileuses, it reveals a dense purple hue as well as a complex bouquet of blackberries, peppery herbs, cedar pencil, and truffle. It's nicely textured, medium-bodied, and well-balanced, with light, elegant tannins and a great finish. It's already a joy to drink but should keep nicely for a decade.

Bottled unusually in a Burgundy-shaped bottle (and a heavy one at that), this wine comes from the portion of the estate that is on clay soil. That gives the wine weight to add to its rich fruit. Wood aging contributes spice and polish to the wine. Drink from 2022. ROGER VOSS