Vineyard: Pauillac, Bordeaux. Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon 83%, Merlot 15%, Cabernet Franc 1%, Petit Verdot 1%

Vinification: In 2016, there were two main trends in the weather as we experienced it in Pauillac: A very wet winter and spring, more than half of the annual rainfall came in the first four months of the year. An extremely dry summer and autumn without any significant rainfall, resulting in a water deficit at the end of the year. As a consequence of the summer drought, the grapes were numerous but remained rather small, making for density and concentration. High temperatures in August and September allowed for slow ripening and excellent maturity, so that the harvest started with the Merlot on 26 September and continued in perfect conditions until 14 October. In the vat house, each grape variety and each plot were, as usual, vinified separately in order to let their intrinsic character shine through. The wines, which have now been blended, offer remarkable colour, intense fruit and spice aromas and a dense texture of very rich and well-rounded tannins.

Tasting notes: Dark and intense cherry red. The highly refined nose reveals perfectly ripe fruit. Ripe bilberry and blackcurrant aromas combine harmoniously with floral notes. With airing, the nose unfolds on pepper and spice balanced by elegant notes of graphite and blonde tobacco, bringing charm and nobility to an extensive range of aromas. The full and dense attack exhibits exceptionally well-rounded and silky tannins. The ample mid-palate abounds in black fruit along with cocoa flavours and biscuity notes, leading into a full-bodied and remarkably persistent finish, the sign of a great vintage.

Paired with: Grilled red meat, game and aged cheeses. 

Served at: 16-18°C.

Aging: For many decades.