Chateau Argadens has been a favourite of ours since their inaugural 2002 vintage, which was when the Sichel family (of Chateaux Angludet and Palmer fame) bought this property. The property is situated 37 miles south of the city of Bordeaux in Saint-Andre-du-Bois. Since taking it on, the Sichel family has had one major ambition and that is to make their wine a shining example of what affordable Bordeaux can be. With 45 hectares of vines situated at one of the highest points in the Entre-Deux-Mers, the vineyard, with vines on average 30 years old, benefits from rich clay-limestone soils. Its aspect provides excellent drainage and sun exposure, both key to producing a beautifully ripe, opulent claret. The attention to detail at all stages of production is exceptional and is especially impressive given the chateau`s modest classification. They use sustainable farming methods, not allowing any herbicides, pesticides or artificial fertilisers. The estate is also run on the principles of biodiversity with fruit trees, chickens and bees all contributing towards a balanced, diverse ecosystem. (JW 14/03/19)