Château Valandraud, 1er Grand Cru Classé; Saint-Emilion. In 1989, Jean-Luc Thunevin and his wife Murielle bought a tiny 1.5-acre plot in SaintÉmilion near Châteaux Pavie-Macquin, Ausone, and La Clotte. Without the capital to build a full winery, a nearby garage was used… The resulting wine, Château de Valandraud, was first released in 1991 (the name “Valandraud” is an amalgam of “Vallon de Fongaban” –where its vines grow– and “Andraud” – Murielle’s maiden name). By 1995, it was rated 95 by Robert Parker. Thus, was born the “garage wine” movement, so influential in the 1990s, and earning Thunevin the nickname of “Bad Boy”. Intense purple red colour with garnet red hue. Smoky nose, ripe berries, and hints of mild spices. The 2009 vintage has 97 points, Robert Parker. On the palate sweet fruit, very well made with good balance and depth. Smooth tannins and fine acidity. 15% Alk. 85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc. 100% new French oak. Aged 22 months.