Roc des Cambes is François Mitjavile's twelve-hectare Cotes de Bourg estate, situated across the Dordogne from Saint-Emilion on similarly clay-limestone soils. Purchased in 1988 and first vinified under the current approach from 1992 onwards, the estate is planted to 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc and aged in 100% new French oak, the same approach Mitjavile applies at Le Tertre Roteboeuf. The Wine Advocate (William Kelley) awarded 92-94 en primeur and Vinous (Neal Martin) 93.

Kelley described the 2022 Roc de Cambes as 'mingling aromas of sweet cherries and cassis with notions of licorice, espresso roast and spices, medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with a broad-shouldered profile, framed by powdery tannins, and concluding with a chalky finish' and noted that this is always the most structured wine in the Mitjavile portfolio. Neal Martin at Vinous followed with 93, finding it 'perfumed and sensual on the nose with black cherries, peony and iris flower alongside a hint of cassis' and 'wonderful delineation' on a palate of 'grainy tannins' and 'tensile finish of black pepper, sage and graphite,' projecting a drinking window of 2030 to 2055.

Roc des Cambes consistently delivers one of the finest value propositions in fine Bordeaux: Mitjavile's philosophy, farming standards and winemaking rigour applied to a Cotes de Bourg terroir at a fraction of the price demanded by comparable work at Le Tertre Roteboeuf. For buyers who appreciate the Mitjavile house style -- exotic spice, espresso roast, 100% new oak and an uncompromising approach to low yields -- the Roc des Cambes offers exactly the same winemaking philosophy in a more accessible format.

Cellar for five to eight years. Best from 2030 to 2055. Decant three hours before service. Pair with strongly flavoured meat preparations, truffle or aged strong cheese.