Founded in the early 1980s by visionary Régis Moro on clay-limestone slopes just beyond Saint-Émilion in Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux, Vieux Château Champs de Mars quickly earned a cult following for its old-vine, terroir-driven reds—neighbors to the legendary Château Le Puy. The estate slumbered quietly until 2022, when the Amoreau family (stewards of Le Puy since 1749) acquired it, unearthing a treasure trove of pristine library vintages including this 2000 "Johanna," their flagship cuvée named for Régis's granddaughter. True to their perfectionist ethos, the Amoreaus implemented a meticulous rebottling and recorking program— a rare honor typically reserved for elite Grand Cru Classé estates—restoring these relics to impeccable condition, much like refurbishing a classic Jaguar for the open road.

The 2000 vintage, hailed by Robert Parker as Bordeaux's "millennium vintage" and the "greatest since 1990," delivered profound depth, consistency, and structure even from smaller estates like Champs de Mars. Sourced from 70-year-old vines (80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc), "Johanna" was hand-harvested, vinified gently in oak casks for 60 days, then aged 18 months in used 225L barrels before unfiltered bottling. Now rereleased with Le Puy's seal of quality, it showcases tannins that have seamlessly integrated with oak and fruit after 25 years, offering a window into right-bank elegance without the classified growth price tag.

Why You'll Love It

• Restored Library Gem: Re-corked and re-bottled by Le Puy's Amoreaus, ensuring flawless condition from a trove undisturbed since the Moro era—grand cru treatment for Castillon value.

• Parker-Endorsed Vintage Magic: 2000's tannic structure has evolved into silky harmony, blending ripe plum, cassis, cedar, and earth with vibrant freshness that punches above its humble appellation.

• Old-Vine Soul: 70-year-old Merlot-Cab Franc from elite plateau terroir delivers finesse, perfume, and savory depth—Le Puy-adjacent without the hype or cost.

How to Serve It

• Temperature & Glass: No decanting necessary. Serve at 60-65°F and let the wine open up inside a wide Bordeaux glass to unfurl its complex aromatics and integrated tannins.

• Food Pairings: Matches grilled lamb, beef tenderloin with mushrooms, aged cheeses, or charcuterie—its earthiness and lift cut through richness beautifully.

• Drinking Window: Peaking right now. The re-corking program has guaranteed graceful evolution and this wine is in its prime. Enjoy now through early 2027.