Château Cantemerle Haut Medoc 2016

The Château of Cantemerle, located in the Médoc, has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The story of the estate reads like an epic historical drama: shifting political alliances, religious conflict, arranged marriages, and, of course, familial intrigue. Through all the ups and downs there has been one constant: the production of world-class wine. Château Cantemerle has the distinction of being the first revision to the 1855 Bordeaux Classification: it was added as a fifth-growth a few months after the publication of the original list. The Château fell on hard times in the beginning of the 20th century. However, in the 1980's serious investments were made to replant and expand the vineyards, as well as the cellar, resulting in Cantemerle, and the wine, being restored to its former glory.

The vineyards of Château Cantemerle are planted to 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot on 92 hectares on soils of sand and gravel. The grapes are fermented in a mix of conical wooden vats, stainless steel tanks and cement vats and aged in 40%-50% new French oak barrels for 12-16 months. The wines of Cantemerle are medium-bodied, charming, fresh and elegant. They drink well young but will age graefully for 20 years. This is among the most consistent and best value Cru Classé wines in all of Bordeaux.

Swirling this wine in the glass brings forth a very complex bouquet, the hallmark of a great wine. In the mouth, the first impression is both powerful and elegant, with rich flavors covering the palate. All the usual aromas of this wine-tobacco, black currant, cloves and a woodiness typical of ripe Cabernet-are present in a subtle register which will become more prominent with time. The tannins are very supple, lingering elegantly on the finish. At this stage of its development the wine is characterized by a delicate charm. This promising wine offers a typical illustration of the Cantemerle terroir. Very classic, it calls for some time in a decanter before serving. A further two or three years in the cellar can bring out its lovely personality, but it will continue to improve for an even longer time thanks to the nature of the great 2016 vintage.