Chateau Puygueraud, Francs Cotes de Bordeaux "George", 2016

Crafted in honor of George Thienpont, the founder of Château Puygueraud, this cuvée reflects both legacy and intent. Grown on the limestone-rich hills of Francs—just a short drive from Saint-Émilion—“George” blends mostly Merlot with Cabernet Franc and a touch of Malbec, capturing the precision of a cooler, classic vintage like 2016.

What sets it apart is not just its depth, but its restraint. The wine shows dark fruit, tobacco, and graphite, but never tips into excess—thanks to firm acidity, fine tannins, and minimal new oak. There’s a clarity to the structure that makes it feel more like a thoughtful Saint-Émilion Grand Cru than a satellite appellation.

Now with a few years of bottle age, it’s hitting its stride—though it will continue to evolve gracefully for another decade. For collectors looking beyond the big names or anyone seeking Right Bank class at a smart price, Puygueraud “George” 2016 is a quiet overachiever.