Bordeaux En Primeur 2016

“2016 is another fantastic vintage following on from the brilliant 2015. As a lover of strong cabernet blends, and the power of great Pauillac and St Estephe, 2016 may end up being my favourite of the two, but it is more likely that in the long term both will have some really stand out wines to offer. There are some gorgeous right bank wines too, so everyone should be happy! Anyone wishing to lay down wines for a long time should make sure they are well stocked in the great vintages. 2016 joins 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2015 in the list of must-have years.”

James Davy, June 2017

The Davy’s buying team visited Bordeaux in early April for the annual Union des Grands Crus tasting – a hectic three days of visits, to dozens of Châteaux, tasting hundreds of wines. After the excellent 2015 vintage and initially unpromising weather conditions in ’16, it seemed too much to hope for another good year. Few could have predicted how things would turn out at harvest time, with sudden rains bringing a near perfect balance to the hot, dry summer. 2016 has a whiff of the miraculous!

Equally good as, but quite different in style to the 2015 vintage, our tastings from cask suggest 2016 is a year of elegant, classical wines, with beautiful aromas and fine, ripe tannins, elevated by very fresh acidity. The wines hark back to the style of Bordeaux seen twenty years ago…but with all the added benefits of modern vineyard and wine making techniques. Approachable (because of those silky tannins) but with very long ageing ability, 2016 should offer tremendous enjoyment for many years to come.

Saint-Estèphe

Château Clauzet 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £150.00

Château Clauzet is owned by Baron Maurice Velge. He first purchased a couple hectares of vineyards in St. Estephe from Château de Côme, in 1997, followed a little later by Château Clauzet and its 6 hectares, then gradually increased to the current 23 hectares. The vineyards are neighbours of Lafite and Cos d’Estournel and have very similar soils, deep gravel and gentle slopes thus providing good drainage. Wine maker José Bueno worked for 23 years at Baron Philippe de Rothschild with Chateau Clerc Milon and Chateau d’Armailhac. The viticulture is organic.

“Deep and full extraction on show here, yet again proving that this is a vintage in St-Estèphe where the winemakers have got a lot of leeway to play with. A big wine held in balance, with cassis, black cherry and some attractive charcoal and menthol. Things close in on the finish, but it just holds off from becoming drying. Drink: 2025-2040” Decanter Magazine, April 2017

Château Meyney 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £245.00

Château Meyney is a St Estèphe that has the particularity to be located at the centre of a single block vineyard of 51 hectares. Looking down the Gironde, the estate is protected from frosts due to the proximity of the estuary. The vines are an average age of 35 to 40 years, divided between 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30%Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot.

“The 2016 Meyney has quite an opulent and flamboyant bouquet, which is something I do not expect from this Saint Estèphe. It seems to calm down in the glass and attains more delineation and poise. The palate is sweet on the entry with impressive precision, quite linear in style with blackberry, graphite and smoky notes, leading to a finish that offers satisfying persistence. Excellent.” 90-92pts, Neal Martin, April 2017

“Solid and incredible depth reminds me of the Meyneys of the 1960s that were so structured and incredible. Full- bodied yet polished and refined. Super structure.” 95-96pts, James Suckling, March 2017

Offered for sale ‘En Primeur’, in bond. Price shown is per case (12x75cl bottles) and excludes UK duty and VAT which will be charged at the prevailing rate when the wine lands in the UK. Onward delivery not included. En Primeur prices not available in conjunction with any other discounts or offers.

Château Ormes de Pez 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £250.00

Ormes de Pez is one of St-Estèphe’s leading Cru Bourgeois and was bought by Jean-Charles Cazes in 1936 from Chateau Lynch-Bages. 32 hectares of vines are planted with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Wines are matured in one to two-year-old barrels for 12 to 18 months.

“Powerful and structured with lots of blueberry, blackberry and currant character. Full-bodied, tight and tannic yet polished and beautiful. Fantastic. Juicy.” 93-94pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château de Pez 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £297.00

Château de Pez, is a Cru Bourgeois located in Saint-Estèphe and is the most ancient Bordeaux vineyards alongside Calon Ségur. Created in the 15th century, it enjoys ideal exposures on the hilltops and has been carefully renovated after it was acquired by Louis Roederer in 1995. The wine is usually rich and dense and merits prolonged ageing.

“The 2016 de Pez appears to be benefitting from a long-term replanting program at the estate. This is a blend of 53% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3.5% Petit Verdot and 1.5% Cabernet Franc. The IPT is quite high at 80, and there is 13.9% alcohol. It has a pure and comely bouquet with black cherries and blackcurrant pastilles, just a touch of crushed violets that emerge with time. The palate is really quite lovely: very well balanced with a fine line of acidity, quite saline in the mouth, perhaps the finest tannic structure that I have encountered during many years of tasting this Saint Estèphe, with a long persistent finish. Maybe this is the “dark horse” of the appellation this year. Drink: 2022-2050″ 92-94 pts Neil Martin, robertparker.com, April 2017

Dame de Montrose 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £312.00

The second wine of Château Montrose, that boasts of the Medoc’s best vineyard sites and is often considered to be the most reliable and longest-lived wines in the region. Since the first vine were planted in 1815, only three families owned the property before it was purchased by Martin and Olivier Bouygues in 2006, who reconstructed a spectacular 10000 m² of vineyard and built a modern cellar.

“Exceptionally deep blackish crimson. Not especially expressive on the nose but really deep and intense on the palate Very dense for a second wine but with a good raciness and energy. Rather elegant and flattering without resorting to sweetness. Quite cool on the end. Lighter and less dense than the grand vin. Drink 2024-2039.” Jancis Robinson MW, April 2017

Pagodes de Cos 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £384.00

Tasting en primeur at Cos d’Estournel is a memorable experience, with groups of tasters ushered stand around long, beautifully lit tasting tables, somewhere between an alter and the VIP area of a very smart nightclub. The grand vin looks to be one of the wines of the vintage but the Pagodes has also won praise. Far more accessible on tasting at this stage, with super-fine tannins.

‘This is a serious wine representing 55% of the overall production, with the other 45% in Cos (‘not one drop into a third wine or bulk’ says director Aymeric de Gironde). Extremely dark black cassis fruits and graphite show the power of St-Estèphe clays. Fresh, bright and well structured (3.61pH, 65IPT), this is bristling with fruit and silky tannins, and may even close down for a few years. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46.5% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 0.6% Cabernet Franc from vines averaging 35 years old, aged in 30% new oak.’’ 92 pts Jane Anson, Decanter

Pauillac

Château Lafon - Rochet 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Lafon-Rochet has a great location, adjacent to Lafite Rotshchild and Cos d’Estournel in Saint Estephe. Since the Tesseron family, the quality of the wine has improved a lot. Later harvest and higher use of new oak has made the wine from Lafon - Rochet more powerful and they are today getting more attention.

“Plenty of fruit and concentration to this wine, and it’s buttressed by the tannins. Muscular and intense. Full- bodied yet reserved and tight. Excellent.” 93-94pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château d’Armailhac 2016, Case of 6x75cl IB £195.00

Château d’Armailhac has been under the ownership of Baron Philippe de Rothschild since the 1930s. Classified as a fifth growth, the property only produce one wine that is seen as great value and is generating more and more interest amongst wine lovers.

“The 2016 D’Armailhac is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot that was picked between 27 September and 14 October…..typical d’Armailhac in terms of the opulence and flamboyance with lush black cherry and boysenberry fruit…immense purity here with some lovely blue fruit appearing on the finish. Quite simply, this is one of the best wines of Château D’Armailhac that I have tasted…’’ Neal Martin, 92-94 points

‘This is really tannic and muscular for d’Armailhac. Perhaps the most powerful ever. Full and chewy yet balanced and polished. Very, very impressive. Greatest ever?’ 95-96 pts James Suckling

Château Bellegrave 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £197.00

Château Bellegrave lies in the south of Pauillac, between Château Latour, Pichon - Longueville and Lynch - Bages.

“This is all silky elegance, falling over itself to welcome you in. 2016 is such a good vintage for rediscovering those little, overlooked estates, and this is lovely, with enveloping tannins and touches of rusticity that remind you there are still estates working in a traditional manner without extreme selection, even in Pauillac. Very good.” 91pts Jane Anson

Château Lynch Moussas 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £330.00

Château Lynch Moussas is a 5th growth located in Pauillac. After going through a renovation program in the 1990’s the estate is now producing high quality Bordeaux. The wine is matured in 60% new oak barrels for 12 to 18 months.

Echo de Lynch Bages 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £340.00

Echo de Lynch Bages is the second wine of Château Lynch Bages, an excellent wine which consistently outperforms its fifth growth classification and is regularly ranked in the same league as second growths. Its distinctive character has earned it a place amongst Pauillac’s greatest. The average age for vines is 30 years with some being as old as 60 and the grand vin is matured for 15 months in 60% new oak.

“The 2016 Echo de Lynch Bages is a blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot, representing about one-third of the total production. It has a clean and precise bouquet, very polished and developing crushed violet scents with time. The palate is medium-bodied with quite crunchy, firm tannin on the entry. Quite saline in the mouth, masculine and grippy with just a little toughness on the finish that should mellow by the time of bottling. Best give this Deuxième Vin a couple of years in bottle if you can. Drink: 2020-2032” 89-89pts Neil Martin, robertparker.com, April 2017

Château Batailley 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £414.00

Château Batailley is a 55ha of vineyards located to the west of Mouton Rothschild in Pauillac. Owned by negociant Borie-Manoux, the estate has enjoyed a solid reputation though years. Since the 2000s the quality of their wines has improved and wine critics have been rather impress with the refined and complex wines produced on site. Château Batailley today is seen as an affordable ‘true Pauillac’ style.

“I thought the 2015 defined the new Batailley, but this is fantastic. Full-bodied and so tannic and powerful. Flavors of chocolate, coffee and spices. Excellent finish. Very muscular. Tight and precise.” 95-96 pts James Suckling, March 2017

“Lifted, sweet and very Pauillac on the nose. Thick and sweet on the palate though – rather different from the nose. Pretty sharp on the palate with some overtones of the right bank even though the nose is pure Pauillac. Quite a dramatic play, this wine! Drama in spades. Drink 2025-2043.” 17+ Jancis Robinson MW, April 2017

Château Pontet - Canet 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £1,350.00

Château Pontet - Canet‘s vineyard is ideally positioned right opposite Mouton Rothschild. The quality has varied through time but, since 1994 Alfred Tesseron has been in charge of the Domaine, and Pontet - Canet is now one of the new great wines from Bordeaux and has garnered a lot of attention. The wines are fermented with natural yeasts and age on average 12-18 months in oak (40-60% new) before bottling.

The 2016 vintage has released at a stellar price (reflecting stellar scores from the critics). Representing an increase of around a third on the 2015 vintage, time will tell if the price is deserved. It certainly makes Pontet - Canet 2015 seem good value.

“Vivid and full of energy with blackberry, currant and salt. full body, intense and long. Harmony. purpose. Classicism. The mineral and currant character is all year. A seamless tannin texture. Great wine. You want to drink it now!” 98-99pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Lynch Bages 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £POA

Château Lynch Bages is an excellent wine which consistently outperforms its fifth growth classification and is regularly ranked in the same league as second growths. Its distinctive character has earned it a place amongst Pauillac’s greatest. The average age for vines is 30 years with some being as old as 60 and the grand vin is matured for 15 months in 60% new oak.

“This is really back-ended thanks to a powerful and almost endless finish. Full-bodied, dense and powerful with incredible concentration and length. Round and polished tannins. Layered. This unravels bit by bit. Energetic acidity gives it such superb freshness. This is at the 2010/2009 level.” 98-99pts, James Suckling April 2017

“…This is a classic Lynch Bages with ambition and recalls vintages like 1990, a Lynch Bages built for long-term ageing. That arching backbone is counterbalanced by the keen line of acidity and a freshness that knows no bounds. There is ethereal delineation and tension on the finish, but I would give this at least ten years in bottle to enjoy this audacious Lynch Bages at its peak. Maybe the biggest surprise of the vintage, this has all the makings of a sensational wine. Drink: 2026-2060.” Robert Parker, robertparker.com, April 2017

Château Pichon Lalande 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

The Domaine Pichon Lalande is a a 2nd Growth that was separated from Pichon Baron in 1850. The style is suppler than other Pauillac due to the proximity of St Julien and higher Merlot content. The quality has been consistently excellent for the last 30 years, rivalling with first growth quality.

“Light savory and tobacco notes peek out from the core, but a ball of cassis and blackberry fruit is still coiled up with the strong iron spine. This is to be expected. Very pure, with a long finish. Risk-free cellaring.” 95-98pts James Molesworth, WineSpectator, April 2017

Saint-Julien

Château du Glana 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £195.00

Château Du Glana is located between the towns of Beychevelle and Saint - Julien, opposite the famous Château Ducru - Beaucaillou. After several other owners, Mr Gabriel Meffre bought the estate in 1961 and increased the vineyard by acquiring several plots from third growth Château Lagrange. He also consulted wine guru Denis Dubourdieu to create a well-balanced, velvety, and complex wine enjoyable young, but also with excellent ageing potential.

“Owned by brothers Ludovic and Julien Meffre, this wine is a deep purple colour with extremely aromatic juice, delivering the triumvirate of what you want in a primeur wine – fruit, freshness and genuine astringency on the tannins. The black cherry and cassis fruit is inevitably held back a little at this stage, but there is potential for bedding down during ageing, making this a very promising wine. Good St-Julien classicism on display here. 56% Cabernet Sauvignon and 44% Merlot with 12 months in 40% new oak. … A wine to watch…” Drink: 2027-2050, Decanter Magazine, April 2017

Château Lalande - Borie 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £230

Château Lalande - Borie took its name from its owner, Jean Eugene Borie who purchased 18 hectares of vines from Château Lagrange the 1970s and another 12 hectares from various growers. The wine is perceived as a popular and early drinking and show the classic character of St Julien.

“Rich and very lively on the nose. Real freshness and raciness. Beautiful wine! Really vibrant and rich. But with masses of energy. Just very slightly dry on the end. But such a charmer! GV 13.66%. Drink 2021-2030.″ 17.5pts Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, April 2017

“55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 33% new oak. 3.67pH. This wine is packed with generous fruits and some lovely, deep tannins that are both flexible and fresh. The vines for this wine are 13ha on the western side of the appellation near La Mouline river, made up of sandy soils with extremely fine gravels. Again, this shows that you can find quality and value at every level in St-Julien in 2016. Drinking Window 2025- 2038″ 90pts Jane Anson, Decanter.com, April 2017

Château Saint Pierre 2016, Case of 6x75cl IB £275.00

“The 2016 Château Saint-Pierre is a blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc picked between 29 September and 3 October for the Merlot and 5-17 October for the Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is matured is 50% new oak. The Cabernet comes through strongly on the nose as you would expect: quite intense black fruit, graphite and just a touch of dried herbs. There is lovely definition and focus on display. The palate is well balanced with grainy tannin, a crisp line of acidity, classic in style in keeping with the style of the vintage with very fine mineralité and tension towards the sprightly finish. It is one of the most Pauillac-like Château Saint-Pierres that I have tasted, a very well crafted, almost understated but sophisticated wine that will age for 20 to 30 years. This is a fantastic Saint Julien that may well rest at the top of my banded score. Drink: 2022-2050.” 94-96pts Neil Martin robertparker.com, Apr 2017

Château Gloria 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £360.00

Château Gloria is a relatively new estate in Saint Julien. It was founded in 1942 by Henri Martin, who comes from a winemaker family. He purchased 6 hectares of vines on the advice of his friend, Jean-Charles Cazes, father of Jean Michel Cazes of Château Lynch Bages. Today the estate covers 48 hectares and has seen a complete renovation of the winemaking facilities. Château Gloria is a popular Bordeaux wine appreciated for its early drinkability, charming character and fair prices.

“… This is a little more backward and broody compared to the Saint-Pierre and indeed its Saint Julien peers, demanding more coaxing from the glass. It almost reluctantly unfolds and unveils subtle pencil box and dry tobacco aromas. The palate is more outgoing than the aromatics with a vibrant, almost citrus-fresh opening, tensile tannins and a satisfying sense of energy. This feels nimble and agile in the mouth with a touch of white pepper lingering on the aftertaste. You come away with the feeling that this Gloria has something up its sleeve for those with patience to cellar it for eight to ten years.” 93-95 pts Wine Advocate, April 2017

Château Langoa Barton 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £439.00

Château Langoa Barton has been owned by the Barton family since 1826 alongside Château Leoville Barton. The wines are known for offering great quality at reasonable prices, they are elegant and structured and classed amongst the best of St Julien. The 17 hectares of vine are composed with 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. The wine is aged in 60% new barrels for 12 to 18 months.

“This is really structured with great depth and power. Full body, chewy tannins, lots of fruit and a tangy, fresh finish. Solid.” 94-95pts, James Suckling April 2017

“The 2016 Langoa Barton is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc picked between 29 September and 13 October. It is being matured in 60% new oak barrels. It has a very succinct bouquet, with a mixture of black and red fruit, a slight sea spray/estuarine tincture, hints of leather and brown spice in the background. The palate is very harmonious on the entry with a grainy texture. There is good backbone here, maybe just a little foursquare compared to other Saint Julien wines, but it gathers pace towards the finish that displays touches of spice and cedar. Understated and classic Langoa. Drink: 2022-2045.” 91-93pts Neil Martin, robertparker.com, Apr 2017

Château Branaire - Ducru 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £465.00

Château Branaire - Ducru is a 4ème Cru Classé which was acquired by Patrick Maroteaux in 1988 who invested and improved the vineyards, the cellar but also the reputation of the estate. Today with the help from consultants Jacques and Eric Boissenot, the wines have the reputation to be of great pleasure and value.

Château Talbot 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £490.00

Château Talbot is one of the largest estates in the Médoc, with 102 hectares of vine near Beychevelle. It is perceived as one of the most reliable wine in St-Julien. Since the 1950s the estate has been owned by the Cordier family, who also produce a white wine ‘Le Caillou Blanc de Talbot’, very unusual for the area.

“Lovely deep damson colour with violet edging that suggests a healthy pH. Great balance of fruit and acidity, this is one of the fresher wines of the appellation. The fruit is cleanly extracted, fresh and well paced, with a lovely layer of complexity driven by smoke-edged mineral notes. Aged in 50% new oak.” 94 pts Jane Anson, Decanter

Château Beychevelle 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £679.00

Château Beychevelle is a 4eme Grand cru Classe located south of St Julien. The iconic label comes from its ownership by the Duc d’Eperon who was the Admiral of France in the 16th century. The wines produced are generous, deep and well-balanced with a silky texture and are matured in oak barrels (50-60% new) for 18 months.

“The softness and finesse to this are indeed impressive with blackberry and blackcurrant character. Full-bodied, dense and polished. Lovely texture and length. It builds on the palate. Clearly better in 2015. This is the first year in from the new cellar.” 94-95pts, James Suckling April 2017

“… it is the first vintage to be matured in the new chichi winery whose glass exterior overlooks the passing traffic on the D2. It has a very pure, fragrant bouquet with black cherries, cassis, cedar and wet limestone, extremely precise to the point where you might think it was from the Right Bank (logical given the proportion of Merlot in the blend). The palate is sensational: understated at first and bridled with ultra-fine tannin, it is a Beychevelle armed with a disarming sense of symmetry. It builds in the mouth towards a fabulously tensile finish that is so fresh and full of energy that the senses are almost overwhelmed. Frankly, it leaves all the other Beychevelles in recent years standing. This is an electrifying 2016 from winemaker Philippe Blanc and his right-hand man, technical director, Romain Ducolomb. Drink 2026 – 2060.” 96-98pts Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, April 2017

Château Léoville Barton 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £750.00

Once part of the Léoville estates (including Léoville Poyferre and Léoville Las Cases), Château Léoville Barton is the smallest portion of the three and has been owned by the Barton family since 1826.The estate spreads over 50 hectares of vines planted with 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc. The wine is matured in oak barrels for 18 months, 50% of which is new and are known for their great quality at reasonable prices.

“Tight and chewy with a solid tannin structure and depth of fruit. Full body and lots of depth and texture. A Barton with lots happening already. Develops beautifully on the palate. Should be better than the 2015.”98- 99pts, James Suckling April 2017

“Dark blackish purple. Less obviously aromatic than Langoa. Tea-leaf notes. Round texture with gloriously ripe tannins. Really a standout Barton. So unusually supple! Yet with masses of tannins underneath. This will surely be one of the vintage’s longer-living wines. Glorious texture and flavour. Utterly minerally dry, but not drying. Very good freshness – much fresher than many of its peers. Real energy. Drink 2027-2047” 18pts Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, April 2017

Château Léoville Poyferré 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £800.00

“The build up on the palate is impressive with blackberry and blueberry character. Plenty of currants, too. Full- bodied, linear and tight. Racy tannins and a long finish. Shows tension, depth, real raciness and pure finesse. A combination of the best from both 2009 and 2010.” 95-96pts, James Suckling April 2017

“… Damsons and bilberries abound, with clear tension where the skin of the wine is pulled tightly over the drum. It is less of a ‘classical’ St-Julien than some this year, but it is entirely of itself, and excellent. The blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc, with a full 55% of the overall production making it into the grand vin, which has 3.66pH. Michel Rolland has been consultant for many years, working closely alongside owner Didier Cuvelier. Drinking Window 2027 – 2050.” 96pts Jane Anson, Decanter.com, April 2017

Château Ducru - Beaucaillou 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £1,700.00

Château Ducru-Beaucaillou is a 2ème Cru classé in St-Julien perceived as a Super Seconds. Owned by the Borie family, the wines are matured in oak barriques (50-60% new) for 18 months and are deep, complex and powerful.

“The 2016 Ducru - Beaucaillou is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot cropped at 36 hectoliters per hectare between 24 September and 14 October and matured in 100% new oak barrels (for a total of 18 months). The alcohol level comes in at 13.63% with a pH of 3.71. The bouquet is very closed at first, and so I aerated the Grand Vin by transferring from one glass to another. It gradually unfurls to reveal scents of blackberry, bilberry, cedar and a touch of pencil lead. The palate is medium-bodied with a firm backbone cloaked in layers of black fruit. The new oak is probably more present here than some of its peers, but there is more than sufficient substance to absorb that. The mineralité surfaces right towards the persistent finish, completing what is a Ducru - Beaucaillou built for the long term. Drink 2026 – 2065.” 96-98pts Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, April 2017

Connétable Talbot 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Connétable is the second wine of Château Talbot is one of the largest estates in the Médoc, with 102 hectares of vine near Beychevelle. It is perceived as one of the most reliable wine in St- Julien. Since the 1950s the estate has been owned by the Cordier family, who also produce a white wine ‘Le Caillou Blanc de Talbot’, very unusual for the area.

Château Lagrange 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Lagrange is located within a few miles of Château Gruaud Larose, Château Lagrange has been producing some fabulous wines since 1983, when it had become part of Japanese firm Santori. Their inclusive programme of renovation and investment has been a succes and today their temperature controlled barrel chais is considered as one of the best in Bordeaux.

“Powerful red with a rich and tannic centre palate. Full body, lots of depth and a long and chewy finish. Indeed, this shows potential. Much better than the 2015.” 95-96pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Leoville Las Cases 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Passionate winemaker Michel Delon, who only selected the best grapes for its wines, declassified 50% of his crops in 1986 and 67% in 1990 in order to create one of the best wines of the Medoc. His son is now in charge of Leoville Las Cases following his father steps. Matured in oak barriques (70-80% new) for 18 months, their wines are traditional and require patience.

“A unique las cases that harkens back to some of the great classics such as 1985 or 1986 with its solid backbone of tannins and a walnut, licorice and blackcurrant character. Full and powerful, characterized throughout by a steeliness that shows its strength and energy. Better than the 2015. Ultra-classic.” 98-99pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Mauvesin Barton 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £125.00

Mauvesin Barton covers 220 hectares of land including 51 hectares of vineyards, in Moulis en Medoc, halfway between Margaux and Saint Julien.

“A dense and fruity red with chocolate, walnuts and spices. Medium body and chewy tannins. Firm and structured. Very cool wine.” 91-92pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Chasse Spleen 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £258.00

Once part of Château Grand-Poujeaux, Château Chasse Spleen was born in 1863 and is a leading estate in Moulis en Medoc. Its name has a poetic origin and is probably connected to the poem Spleen, whose author Charles Baudelaire visited the estate in the 19th century. In 1976 the property was bought by the Merlaut family who invested in both cellar and vineyards and increased its size. Today, granddaughter Claire Villars runs the estate.

“2016 Chasse-Spleen has a very elegant bouquet with neatly integrated oak, the terroir really showing through here, hints of cedar and smoke emerging with time. The palate is fresh as a button on the entry. It is cut through with a superb line of acidity that engenders superb tension, the tannins firm but fine with a subtle marine influence towards the persistent finish. This is a fabulous Chasse-Spleen, the best I have ever tasted from the estate. It could end up at the top of by banded score.” 92-94 pts, Neal Martin, April 2017

“The fruit here is good, ripe and carefully extracted. There is freshness and the whole thing hangs together with well worked tannins, offering excellent quality for the mid-tier price of Médoc wines.” 90 pts, Jane Anson, Decanter April 2017

Margaux

Baron de Brane 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £240.00

Baron de Brane is the second wine of Château Brane-Cantenac, a 2ème Cru Classé located west of the village of Cantenac in the Margaux appellation. Since Henri Barton has taken over his dad Lucien, extensive investment in the winery has been made and today the wines of Brane Cantenac are fuller and more concentrated, yet still showing the delicate aromas of Margaux.

“The 2016 Baron de Brane is a blend of 65% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc. It has a very pure and charming bouquet with brambly red fruit, cedar and pencil shavings, very assured for a Deuxième Vin. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannin on the entry, the fruit a little darker than the nose suggests, segueing into a well-defined second half with brown spices and hints of leather. This is an intriguing Baron de Brane. Drink: 2020-2030” 89-91pts Neil Martin, robertparker.com April 2017

Château Labegorce 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £240.00

Originally one large estate, divided into three after the French revolution (Chateau Labegorce, Labegorce Zede and L’Abbe Grosse) reunited by late owner Hubert Perrodo. 53 hectares of vineyards, planted to 50% Cabernet Sauvignon , 45% Merlot , 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot and a density of 9,000 vines per hectare, averaging 30 years of age. The terroir is mostly sandy, gravel with some sand mixed with limestone. The wine is aged in 50% new French oak barrels for an average of 15 months. Average production 12000 cases.

“Deep, rich extraction, black cherry in colour with very well controlled aromatics of damson and creamy cappuccino. This is a gorgeous wine and there are going to be many many fans of the contemporary but utterly controlled and well judged flavours on display here. Luscious and big, but everything has a reason for being where it is, nothing superfluous. One of the best ever from this property. Drinking Window 2027/2045″ 93pts Jane Anson, Decanter Magazine, April 2017

Château Angludet 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £250.00

Château Angludet is a Cru Bourgeois or ‘Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel’ under the old system. Angludet regularly make Bordeaux wines which compete with Cru Classe Margaux. The Sichel and Davy families’ friendship dates back to Peter Sichel’s purchase and renovation of the Château in 1961. Davy’s follows each new vintage release with interest and excitement.

“The combination of ripe blackberry fruit and a hint of something floral is immediately appealing, and the dry tannins are quite discreet, making this solid wine easy to enjoy right away. But it will improve with age.” 91pts, James Suckling April 2017

Alter Ego de Palmer 2016, Case of 6x75cl IB £280.00

Second wine of Château Palmer which was established in the first half of the nineteenth century by the English general, Charles Palmer. In 1814, on his way back from the Peninsular War where he had fought with Wellington against Napoleon, General Palmer acquired Château de Gascq in Margaux and gave it his own name. The vines cover a surface of 52 hectares made up of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Wines are matured for at least 18 months in oak barrel.

“This is very concentrated yet soft and fresh in texture. Full-bodied and round and mouth-filling. So impressive how it fills your mouth yet remains fresh. It’s so framed.” 95-96pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château du Tertre 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £348.00

Du Tertre is planted to 52 hectares (of which 18 ha are biodynamic) with 43 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 33 % Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. The vines were planted between 1961 and 1965 and average yields are between 35 and 45 hl/ha. The vinification is in tanks: concrete, wood and stainless steel. Ageing is in 100% French oak of which 45% is new.

“A dense and tight red with currants, blueberries and hints of walnuts. Changes from pure fruit and then back to wet earth. The purity in the cabernet, the linear tannins and the drive with acidity behind it makes it one of the best Tertres ever. Better than 2015?” 94-95pts James Suckling, March 2017

“Dark with the usual sweet oak nose. Just a little dead on the palate. Round and very well worked tannins but just a little short of freshness. Drink 2023/2040.” 16.5+pts Jancis Robinson MW, April 2017

Château Prieure Lichine 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £350.00

Much of this Château ’s fame comes from its enigmatic owner Alexis Lichine who purchased the estate back in 1951. Heavy investment has improved the quality of the wines through new vineyards and by modernising the vinification techniques. He died in 1989 and the estate is now run by his son Sacha, who hired guru oenologist Michel Rolland as consultant in the past.

Château Kirwan 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £378.00

Château Kirwan, a 3ème Cru Classé Margaux, spreads over 35 hectares of vineyards in Cantenac. It has been owned by the négociant firm, Schröder and Schÿlerbeen since 1925 and has regained its reputation since the 1990s, when Michel Rolland started consulting at the estate. The Chateau now produces wines that are richer, fuller and with more depth and complexity.

“A fresh and clean wine with currant and wet-earth character. Medium body and a medium finish” 88-89pts, James Suckling April 2017

“Dark purplish crimson. Some freshness on the nose with a hint of ink and pencils. A certain ‘mineral’ scent. A very slight green note but not bad at all, and certainly not forced. Real Margaux charm. Lift and pleasure in a dry idiom.” Drink 2026-2042 , 17pts Jancis Robinson MW, April 2017

Château Brane Cantenac 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £630.00

Château Brane-Cantenac is a 2ème Cru Classé located west of the village of Cantenac in the Margaux appellation. Since Henri Barton has taken over his dad Lucien, extensive investment in the winery has been made and today the wines of Brane Cantenac are fuller and more concentrated, yet still showing the delicate aromas of Margaux.

“… it has a beautifully defined, very detailed bouquet with mineral-rich black fruit laced with cedar and graphite notes, living up to its nom de plume as the “Pauillac of Margaux”. The palate is simply the best that I have ever tasted at the estate, without question. This has presence, but also weightlessness, filigree tannin and perfectly pitched acidity, with real intensity and drive. The tension here is outstanding and the persistence is incredibly long. It is not the showiest of all the 2016s by a long stretch, and yet it is everything you could possibly want from a Margaux. Like Beychevelle this year, the 2016 Brane - Cantenac puts recent vintages in the shade, thanks not only to the growing season, but also a new punching down system in their gravity-fed winery that was completed in 2015. The 2016 is a benchmark against which future vintages will be compared. Drink 2026-2060.” 96- 98pts Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, April 2017

Château Rauzan Segla 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £695.00

Rauzan-Segla is a 2éme Cru Classé located in Margaux. Great wines were produced in the 1990s made with a higher proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon as well as was new oak in order to create deeper and generous wine. Today the property is owned by Chanel.

“The 2016 Rauzan-Segla (Rausan-Segla) is a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot picked between 20 September and 15 October at 45 hectoliters per hectare. The wine is being aged in 60% new oak for 18 months. It has 13.2% alcohol. It has a very powerful and intense bouquet with layers of blackberry, kirsch, cedar and a touch of mint. The palate is medium-bodied with plenty of fruit concentration: layers of ripe blackberry and boysenberry, segueing into what feels like a very spicy and peppery second half that seems to calm down and attain more nuance with aeration in the glass. It is a wonderful follow-up to the 2015 last year, although not quite with the same audacity and bravado. Tasted twice with consistent notes. Drink 2022-2050”. 95-97pts Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, April 2017

La Sirene de Giscours 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

La Sirene is the second wine of Château Giscours, one of the largest Margaux properties with over 80ha of vineyards. The grand vin was classified as a 3rd growth in 1855. The estate belongs today to Pierre Tari and Eric Albada who invested in the latest technology and modernised the winery.

“The second wine of sirène is very close to Giscours in quality. Well done, with pretty tannins and a fine, fresh finish.” 87-88pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Giscours 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Château Giscours is one of the largest Margaux properties with over 80ha of vineyards. Classified as a 3rd growth in 1855, the estate belongs today to Pierre Tari and Eric Albada who invested in the latest technology and modernised the winery. Château Giscours is regaining its fame.

“This is extremely long and linear with a powerful and refined texture of superfine tannins. Full-bodied, yet so tight and polished. The finish is very, very impressive. Snaps at the end. Better than the 2015?” 96-97pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Desmirail 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Jean Desmirail, a lawyer in Bordeaux’s parliament, gave his name to the property in the 17th century. After successive ownership including Château Palmer, the estate was sold to Lucien Lurton in 1980. His son Denis who is now in charge of the domain invested in a modern stainless steel vat room, with vats of various capacities to enable vinification on a plot-by-plot basis.

“A chewy and rich red with plenty of currant and black-cherry character. Tannic. Should come together nicely with some barrel aging.” 92-93pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Palmer 2016, Case of 6x75cl IB

Château Palmer was established in the first half of the nineteenth century by the English general, Charles Palmer. In 1814, on his way back from the Peninsular War where he had fought with Wellington against Napoleon, General Palmer acquired Château de Gascq in Margaux and gave it his own name. The vines cover a surface of 52 hectares made up of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Wines are matured for at least 18 months in oak barrel.

“I wrote that the 2015 was incredible, and this 2016 is again. It’s equally structured and powerful as the 2015, yet there’s an underlying intellectual serenity to this wine. You taste it, and you want to know and experience it even more. Full and tannic yet ever so polished and beautiful. Mesmerizing. Made from biodynamically grown grapes.” 99-100pts James Suckling, March 2017

Haut-Médoc

Château Tour Saint Bonnet 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £90.00

Tour Saint Bonnet is a reliable cru bourgeois producing wines in a classic style, with 40 hectares under vine on gravelly croups. Wines are aged for 18 months in large oak foudres as opposed to barriques, contributing to the fresh, classic style.

Château Laujac 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £93.00

Located in the heart of the Médoc region, Château Laujac covers 75 hectares of vines. Following the phylloxera and the terrible frosts of 1956, only 8 hectares of vines remained when passionate winemaker Bernard Cruse took over the management of the estate in 1957. He undertook the revival of the vineyards, modernization of the cellar and renovation of the buildings. Today his daughter Vanessa and son-in-law, René-Philippe Duboscq are running the estate.

Château du Moulin Rouge 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £95

Château du Moulin Rouge is located between Margaux and St-Julien-Beychevelle, the estate spreads over 18 hectares that benefits from the micro climate of the estuary. Vines are an average of 40 years old and are planted with half Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc.

“Velvety and rich with lots of blackberry and walnut character. Medium to full body. Long and flavorful. Lots of potential here.” 91-92pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Beaumont 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £105.00

This Cru Bourgeois is located between St Julien and Margaux. Eric Boissenot has been hired at Château Beaumont as a consultant in order to produce fine and delicate Bordeaux wine. The 113 hectares lie in a single block with an average of twenty years old vine. It is planted with 53 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Wines spend 12 to 14 months in oak barrels, one-third of them renewed each year.

“A juicy and pretty wine with berry and chocolate character, a medium body and a clean finish. Clearly better than the 2015.” 91-92pts, James Suckling April 2017

“Deep crimson. Muted but ‘correct’ aromatically. Some richness on the front palate. Very dry finish. More flesh than usual and a good expression of vintage and estate.” 16+pts Jancis Robinson April 2017

“Notable depth of colour, excellent weighty fruit on palate with very tannins for at this level, excellent length on finish ” 16.5 pts TW/ Davy April 2017

Château Caronne St Gemme 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £110

Caronne St Gemme Cru bourgeois is a 150 ha estate located in St Laurent Médoc , next to Lagrange, Gruaud Larose, Belgrave and Tour Carnet Crus Village. Caronne St Gemme is aged for 12 months and made in classic 225l French barrels of which 25% are renewed each year.

“Linear and tight with polished tannins, plenty of fruit and a medium body. Shows polish and refinement already.” 91-92pts, James Suckling April 2017

Château Lanessan 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £113.00

Lanessan is a benchmark for Haut-Médoc. Winemaker Paz Espejo has been in charge since 2009, the 45 hectares of vineyards adjoin AOC Saint-Julien, with an average of 40 years vine. Very expressive aromas of ripe, candied cherry, liquorice and fresh tobacco, tannins both soft but satisfyingly full.

“A structured young red with currant and berry character. Medium body, velvety tannins and a savory finish.” 92-93pts, James Suckling April 2017

“Lifted aromatic nose. Polished tannins with some inner glow. Dry end. Very solid performance. GV” 16.5 pts Jancis Robinson April 2017

Château Lamothe - Bergeron 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £120.00

Located just south of St-Julien, Château Lamothe - Bergeron is 200 years old and was inherited by Jacques de Bergeron in the 18th Century. A politician, he escaped the guillotine but was exiled to his country estate by the French Revolution in 1796 and became a noted expert on vines. The domain is situated on the ‘motte’ (or plot of high land) also referenced in the name. It was sold to Cognac H. Mounier and Hardy in 2009. Today Mery Laurent is in charge helped by Hubert de Boüard, co-owner of Chateau Angelus, who advise Lamothe Bergeron during winemaking process.

“A refined and beautiful red with plum, blackberry and walnut character. Medium to full body and a juicy finish. Well done. Better than the 2015.” 92-93pts James Suckling, April 2017

Château Cambon La Pelouse 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £124.00

Cambon la Pelouse is one of the oldest producers of wine in the Haut-Medoc Back with a history dating back to the late 17th Century. 35 hectares with around 30 years average, densely planted at 5,000 and 7,000 vines per hectare and grown on deep and gravelly soil. Cambon produces elegant wines with a bold colour but finesse on the nose, structured tannins and good length.

“This is a good Cambon, benefitting from vineyard replanting and other investments. The vines have been relocated close to du Tertre, and you can feel the start of a Margaux-tinged florality and classicism. The fruits are dark, tight and vibrant, and the tannins close in on the finish. The best for years. 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. Hubert de Bouard consults. Drinking Window 2023/2038” 91pts Jane Anson Decanter Magazine, April 2017

Château Potensac 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £210.00

Château Potensac is often considered to represent the “pure Medoc style”, powerful with dense tannins and great depth with glorious aromas of blackcurrant and tobacco. Potensac used to be the only “Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel” of its appellation.

Château La Lagune 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £420.00

Château La Lagune is a 3éme Cru Classé Haut Medoc dating back from 1715 and located 10 miles from the city of Bordeaux. The property was sold to the firm Ayala Champagne in 1961 and became the first Château to have a woman managing the estate a few years later. This is still the case today with Caroline Frey running the estate and working alongside biodynamic principles. The wine style of La Lagune is rich and fleshy with a lot of vanilla and dark cherry aromas.

“Now certified organic, and converting to biodynamics from this year. It displays a confident weight to the damson fruits that are hugely elegant and well placed. A little closed when tasted on two occasions, and the high Petit Verdot content of this wine is no doubt contributing to its slight austerity at this stage, but it also brings that beautifully welcome whoosh of black fruit spicing. Very good quality, elegant and long-ageing, just a dash below the exceptional 2015.” Drink: 2027-2045, 93pts, Jane Anson, Decanter

Château Cantemerle 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Château Cantemerle‘s vineyard is planted with Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (30%), Cabernet Franc (6%) and Petit Verdot (4%) with an average of 30 years old vine. All wines are hand harvested and winemaking is made traditionally using wooden conical frustum vats. Wines are aged lot by lot for 12 to 16 months in French oak casks (50% new oak) and an additional 4 months in vat after blending.

“Dense and chewy already with plenty of ripe tannins and bright fruit. Vivid acidity. Full body, a firm and silky texture and a flavorful finish. Lots going on. Excellent follow-up to the great 2015!” 94-95pts, James Suckling April 2017

Graves, Pessac-Léognan

Château Malartic Lagraviere 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £490.00

The Domaine de Lagravière was renamed Malartic-Lagraviere after the Count Hippolyte of Malartic, an admiral who served the Kings of France and owner of the Domaine in the 18th Century. 46 hectares are planted with red grapes; 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot and another 7ha with white grapes; 80% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Sémillon.

“This is so linear and refined with compacted fruit and superb tannin texture. The length and beauty to this grab you immediately and make you pay attention. Wait and see.” 95-96pts, James Suckling April 2017

“…it has a very composed and pure bouquet with blackberry, mint and just a touch of blueberry, the new oak neatly integrated and menthol developing with time. The palate is very well balanced with crisp acidity, fine structure and a keen line of acidity; this is a pixelated Pessac-Léognan that exudes style and panache. There is an effortless nature to this wine and it feels so persistent in the mouth that you cannot wait to take another sip. This is (another) impressive release from the bonny Bonnie family and do not be surprised if it eventually surpasses the outstanding 2015.” 94-96pts Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, April 2017

Château Olivier 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB

Located 11 kilometres from the centre of Bordeaux in the appellation of Pessac-Leognan, Château Olivier dates back to the Middle Ages. The 55 hectares of gravelly terroir are planted with 45 hectares of red grapes; Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The average age of vines is 20 years old for and the wines ared aged for 12 months in oak barrel of which a third is new.

“Tight and chewy young red with plum and berry character plus hints of tobacco. Medium body and a solid core of fruit and tannins.” 91-92pts James Suckling, March 2017

Château Pape Clément 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £POA

Located in Pessac Leognan, Château Pape Clément is one of the oldest Grands Crus of Bordeaux and was already planted with vines in the 11th century. In 12th century the property was owned by Bertrand de Goth who became Pope under the name of Clément V in 1305 and gave his name to the Domaine.

In the 1980s, Bernard Magrez, an entrepreneur passionate about wine, took over the Château and built an unprecedented international reputation for the Grand Cru Classé.

“The 2016 Pape Clément is a blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon this year, picked from 30 September until 19 October at 48 hectoliters per hectare. The first bottle that I tasted with Bernard Magrez and his team felt a little overdone, but I had a strong suspicion that it was not a representative bottle. A second bottle was more restrained on the nose with blackberries, red plum, a touch of cloves and a light iodine influence. I love the delineation and detail here. The palate is medium-bodied with a graphite-infused entry, plenty of black fruit, saline in the mouth with great depth and cohesion on the long and tender finish. It continues Pape- Clément/Bernard Magrez’ move towards a more classic style compared to the previous decade. Tasted four times, once as I mentioned, unnecessarily richer in style, but the other three consistent. Drink: 2024-2050” Robert Parker, robertparker.com, April 2017

Château La Mission Haut Brion 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £3,960.00

Château La Mission Haut Brion is located opposite Château Haut-Brion in the Pessac Leognan appellation. Both property are owned by the Clareance family.

“The 2016 La Mission Haut Brion is a blend of 57.5% Merlot and 42.5% Cabernet Sauvignon picked between 19 September and 14 October, one of the longest ever. “We had to be patient and wait for each plot,” Jean-Philippe Delmas told me. “It took longer than usual.” As is customary, I allowed my sample, and likewise all the wines poured at this tasting, around 40-45 minutes to open since they always transform in the glass. It has a clean and precise, quite understated bouquet with fine mineralité, cold stone aromas infusing the black fruit. This has incredible precision, perhaps even more pixelated than the “gaff over the road” Haut-Brion. The palate is medium-bodied with supple and lithe tannin. I appreciate the line of acidity here, the smoothness and harmony that takes your breath away. Every atom is infused with life-affirming freshness. It is a wine bridled with incredible focus and delineation. I thought that the 2015 La Mission Haut-Brion flirted with perfection. The 2016 has that extra edge, a “je ne sais quoi” that leaves you reaching for the thesaurus looking for superlatives. Drink 2026-2070.” 98-100pts Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, April 2017

The Right Bank, Saint-Emilion, Pomerol and Satellites

Château Les Hauts Conseillants 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £138.00

Château les Hauts Conseillants is the dream of a tenacious man. In 1973, Leopold Figeac decided to restore the 4ha estate in Lalande de Pomerol. Later he purchased another 6 ha with his daughter and son in law. All his efforts have been justified since the Domaine is now well regarded in the appellation and is still run by his grand son Jean Baptiste Bourotte.

“…attractive blackberry, briary and orange rind scented bouquet that is quite vivacious. The palate is medium- bodied with fine tannin, …with just a dash of cracked black pepper livening up the finish. Drink: 2020-2032.” 90-92pts, Neal Martin, April 2017

En Primeur Château La Croix du Casse 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £230.00

“This is layered and rich with beautiful texture and focus. Full body and flavors of dark berries and spices. Walnut and coffee undertones. Real energy here. Almost all merlot this year.” 92-93pts James Suckling, April 2017

Château Bonalgue 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £245.00

Château Bonalgue was founded by a veteran of Napoleon’s Grand Army, Captain Rabion, who inherited the land and built the castle. In 1926 the Bourotte family acquired the property and today Jean-Baptiste, the third generation, is in charge of the estate. The vineyard today is in excellent condition, and the property continues to improve its winemaking methods.

“The 2016 Bonalgue is pure Merlot picked from 3-15 October at 46 hectoliters per hectare, then matured in 50% new oak barrels. It has a lovely, pure and winsome bouquet with precise redcurrant and blackberry scents that gently unfurl in the glass, the oak neatly integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple and juicy tannin, clean black fruit laced with tobacco, seguing into a precise and quite persistent finish. Maybe not quite up there with the 2015, but certainly not far off. Drink: 2021-2039” 90-92pts Neil Robinson, robertparker.com, April 2017

Château Croix Chantecaille 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £110.00

Located in Saint Emilion in the locality of “Chantecaille”, hence its name, on a superb terroir on the borders of Pomerol near L’Evangile and Gazin and neighbour of Château La Dominique. It is also 400 meters from Petrus. The 8.5 ha estate has been being owned by the family of Mrs Angle since 1879.80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, aged 12 months in new oak for 35% and barrels of 1 and 2 years for the remainder.

Château Fonplegade 2016, Case of 6x75cl IB £155.00

Château Fonplegade belongs to Stephen & Denise Adams who also own Chateau l’Enclos in Pomerol and White Cottage Winery in Napa Valley. They renovated both cellar, winery and vineyards which were certified organic in 2013. They also consulted renown oenologist Michel Rolland and today Château Fonplegade is receiving great scores from wine critics.

“Château Fonplégade is beginning the conversion to biodynamics as of 2017 across the entire estate, after being certified organic in 2013. This is a lovely wine that sacrifices zero power but just shoots those silky, rich Merlot fruits through with a whoosh of life. I think it could go further in upping the minerality on the finish, but that should come naturally over the next few years and this is extremely successful. Stephane Derenoncourt consultant as of 2015. 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc aged in 60% new oak. Drink: 2025-2040” 92-93pts Jane Anson, Decanter

Château Barde Haut 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £320.00

Château Barde Haut is located in St Emilion and owned by the Garcin-caithard family who have invested in the winery overs the pat years. The 16 hectares of vineyards are situated on an elevated limestone plateau are close to Troplong Mondot.

“… this is a deep, rich purple in colour, full flavoured and bristling with intent. I can see the ambition, and it may be ‘turned down to nine’ but we are still in a firmly tannic wine that reminds me how intense Merlot can get in these parts. Extremely successful, it is going to age well, although it could do with a little more juice through the mid-palate. Largely situated on the plateau, the blend is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Drinking Window 2025 – 2042.” 91 pts, Jane Anson, Decanter, April 2017

Château Sansonnet 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £275.00

Château Sansonnet spreads over 7 hectares of vineyards and has joined joined the tight circle of Saint-Emilion’s Grans Crus Classés in 2012. Marie-Bénédicte Lefévère, a child of family properties in Pomerol and Saint-Emilion, took over the management of the estate in 2009.

“Dense and velvety-textured red with extremely attractive blackberry and stone character. Mineral and floral. This shows less extraction than in the past and delivers.” 94-95 pts James Suckling, March 2017

“The 2016 Sansonnet is a blend of 85% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon matured in 80% new oak. It has a very intense, quite floral bouquet with an exotic touch that fortunately is nicely contained. The palate is medium-bodied with that Cabernet imparting a little rigidity to the tannin and a touch of graphite, but with very fine structure and focus, plenty of freshness on the finish. This may well surpass the 2015. Drink: 2022-2045” – robertparker.com, April 2017

Château Magrez Fombrauge 2016, Case of 6x75cl IB £500.00

“A rich and chewy red with lots of fruit and tannins. Full-bodied, big and rich. Yet this remains polished and balanced. Exciting fruit character throughout. About one third is made in terracotta jars.” – 97/98pts James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Mar 2017

“The 2016 Magrez Fombrauge, a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, has a very intense, ambitious, hedonistic bouquet with blackberries, bilberry, crème de cassis and incense. It does not seem to convey a sense of place or possess the delineation and freshness of its peers, including those of Fombrauge. There is something predictable about the palate: big and bold, rich and heady, perhaps better defined than I have discerned other vintages but comparing it against the Fombrauge, it invests in decadence at the expense of detail and personality. It is a statement as much of a wine! If size matters then you will love this, although if given the option, I would choose to drink the Fombrauge. Drink: 2020-2035.” 89-91pts Neil Martin, robertparker.com, April 2017

Château Brisson 2016, Case of 12x75cl IB £78.00

Château Brisson is situated in Belvès de Castillon on the north bank of the Dordogne east of Saint-Emilion. Since 1980 the property has been owned by Paul Valade and comprises 18 hectares of mainly Merlot vines which average 30 years of age. Harvesting is done by hand. Yields are kept low and are strictly managed and everything possible is done to enhance the biodiversity of the soil. Winemaking includes pre-fermentation maceration at cool temperatures, gravity flow transfer, gentle pneumatic pressing and so on. The wines are aged in French oak barrels.

An Guide to buying wines En Primeur

Buying wine ‘En Primeur’(sometimes known as ‘Wine Futures’) means buying wines before they are bottled and released onto the market. Wines are purchased exclusive of Duty and VAT and then usually shipped 2-3 years after the vintage.

How does En Primeur work?

En Primeur wines are purchased before they are bottled and released onto the market and while they are still lying abroad. En Primeur wines are bought at In Bond prices , excluding UK duty and VAT. On arrival in the UK the wines will be stored, under bond, on your behalf in our Customer Private Reserves. You will be notified of their arrival and asked for any further delivery instructions. All En Primeur purchases are Ex-Vat and Ex - Duty. If/when you choose to have the wines delivered (anywhere in the EU) these taxes become payable. No other discounts or offers apply to En Primeur wines.

What are the advantages of buying En Primeur?

The En Primeur release price is often (but not always) cheaper than the future price of the wine on the open market. En Primeur can also be the only way to secure wines that are available in very limited quantities.

What is included in the En Primeur price?

The price of the wine includes insurance and shipping to the UK but is exclusive of Duty,VAT and any shipping to your home address once released from bond. When the wines arrive in the UK, Duty and VAT can be deferred further if the wine is stored 'in bond' in a registered bonded warehouse. If it is possible that you may re- sell your wines later, it is advisable to store them under bond. Duty and VAT are charged at the prevailing rate, at time of writing (05/17) UK duty is £25.92per case (12x75cl) and VAT is 20% but these may change at any time. Delivery fees available on quotation.

When are En Primeur wines shipped to the UK?

2016 Bordeaux En Primeur wines are expected to land in the UK in late 2018 / early 2019.