Arbalest 2022
(Bordeaux, France) - [TWI 93] [JD 91]

Made by Napa winemaking star Benoit Touquette, previous winemaker for Screaming Eagle, Dalla Valle, Ovid, Hartwell, Arietta, and the current winemaker of Realm, Fait-Main, and Kata.

In creating the 2022 Arbalest Bordeaux, Touquette sourced fruit from both the Left Bank, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns supreme, and the Right Bank, where Merlot shines. 

On the palate, this wine is rich and full-bodied, with a round, supple mouthfeel driven by the Merlot. Blackcurrant, dark plum, and cherry flavors emerge first, accented by a spiciness and minerality that provide complexity and depth. The structure and tannic backbone of the Left Bank Cabernet Sauvignon are unmistakable, giving the wine a subtle austerity that promises solid aging potential. The balance between ripe fruit and silky tannins demonstrates Touquette’s skill in managing two different varietals and terroirs in harmony. The finish is long and memorable, with lingering notes of dark chocolate, toasted oak, and a touch of salinity.

Ratings & Reviews

93 Points, #4 Top QPR for 2024 - The Wine Independent:
"Made by a Bordeaux winemaker who moved to Napa and is now the winemaker and a partner at Realm, Benoit Touquette, the deep garnet-purple colored 2022 Arbalest is a blend of 60% Merlot (from the Right Bank) and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon (from the Médoc). Black cherries, juicy plums, and black raspberry scents jump from the glass, followed by hints of cinnamon toast, potpourri, and black pepper. The medium to full-bodied palate is chock full of savory spiked black berry layers, supported by plush tannins and well-knit freshness, finishing long with a peppery lift. 2000 cases were made. This would benefit from decanting but is approachable right now, or it will easily cellar for 8-10+ years. At an SRP of $22, this is a no-brainer bargain to stock up on.

I tasted this just a couple of weeks ago, and it was so good (and cheap) that the wine inspired this article...This iconoclastic blend of 60% Merlot from the Right Bank and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Médoc would be heresy if made by anyone but Benoit. He is not allowed to divulge his fruit sources, but let’s just say Benoit is pretty well connected in Bordeaux and the fruit tastes classified-y. 2022 was a warm, ripe, spectacular vintage, resulting in drop-dead deliciousness. Unfortunately, only 2000 cases were made. If you can find some, back the car up and load in all you can." - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW (Nov 2024)

91 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"Based on a blend of Right Bank Merlot and Left Bank Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 16 months in barrel, the 2022 Arbalest reveals classic Bordeaux notes of ripe darker berries, subtle earthy nuances, and a polished, medium-bodied mouthfeel. It's impeccably made, balanced, and ready to go. It should shine over the coming 10-12 years, if not longer. (Drink 2025-2037)" (Mar 2025)