Since the Alloin family took over in 2014, Château Petit Val, driven by its estate manager David Liorit, has constantly sought to challenge itself. Across its 18 hectares spanning Saint-Émilion and Saint-Magne de Castillon, the estate’s ambition is crystal clear: to explore the full potential of its terroir while daring to innovate. Harvesting is carried out entirely by hand, and biodiversity is actively encouraged through the planting of cereals, hedgerows, fruit trees and beehives. The vineyard also stands out for introducing new grape varieties—Riesling, a first in Saint-Émilion, followed in 2023 by Chenin Blanc and, more recently, Grenache and Mourvèdre.
In the cellar, David embraces experimentation with equal enthusiasm: oak barrels, sandstone and clay amphorae, wine globes, and eggonum (an egg-shaped vessel combining wood and stainless steel that promotes micro-oxygenation and preserves freshness) allow him to pursue a highly customised, precision-driven vinification.
Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2022
The estate’s latest release is a superb showcase for Merlot. Crafted from a meticulous plot selection of just 0.10 hectares located behind the château, this micro-cuvée (approx. 900 bottles) reflects the estate’s qualitative evolution over the past decade. The finest clusters, composed of small berries and carefully destemmed by hand, are vinified in a handmade terracotta jar from an artisan near Lake Como. This is followed by partial ageing in wine globe to preserve aromatic purity, then 16 to 18 months in barrel. The result? A structured yet floral wine that recalls the elegance of a fine Pomerol when tasted blind. A wine in tune with modern preferences: aromatic, refined, and ready to drink from the outset.
The label subtly nods to the Alloin family. The “M” of Merveilles is anchored in the “V”-shaped cutout of the label, symbolising their connection to the estate. At the centre, a heart pays tribute to the children who inspired the cuvée’s name. A heartfelt wine in every sense—a true Merveille.
Sandy Bénard-Ravoisier / Photo Château Petit Val
Color: deep garnet with violet highlights, brilliant and limpid.
Nose: opens with an intense bouquet of ripe black fruits, violet, and delicate hints of garrigue. Floral and vibrant, its aromatic profile is both expressive and ethereal, underpinned by remarkable freshness.
Palate: a supple, fluid tannic structure ushers in a vibrant acidity that extends the aromas and underscores the purity of the terroir.
Pairing: perfect with pink duck breast served with a millefeuille of eggplant and confit tomatoes, or a mushroom risotto with edible flowers.
Comment: a singular and seductively expressive style, whose elegance and silkiness recall the soul of a great Pomerol. Simply delightful.
A Chigny-les-Roses, village de la montagne de Reims, Arnaud et Sophie Gounel
