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Wine Enthusiast (96)
This ripe wine is full of great fruit aromas and flavors. Rich, juicy blackberry is combined with intense tannins and ample acidity on the palate. It is a fine summation of the vintage, with opulent fruit that mellows serious tannins. It might seem accessible with all this fruit, but don't be fooled, the wine will need many years.Inc. VAT£1,077.67 -
Wine Enthusiast (96)
This ripe wine is full of great fruit aromas and flavors. Rich, juicy blackberry is combined with intense tannins and ample acidity on the palate. It is a fine summation of the vintage, with opulent fruit that mellows serious tannins. It might seem accessible with all this fruit, but don't be fooled, the wine will need many years.Inc. VAT£655.24 -
Espérance de Trotanoy is the second wine of Château Trotanoy. This Merlot-dominated wine is made from vines averaging 35 years. Espérance de Trotanoy is made from the same vines, same wine-making team and same facilities as the first wine. It is produced in very limited quantities and only in exceptional years. It is vinified in small concrete vats and aged in French oak barrels.
This 2016 has a darkly berried, gently leafy nose, with pure violet aromatics. The palate is textured, with dried-earth minerality, lifted by arching acidity, which makes this hugely approachable and perhaps offers a glimpse into the character of Trotanoy 2016 itself in years to come. There is more than enough ageing potential and tannic rigour here to see this through a decade and more.Inc. VAT£583.24 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2016 Faugères was already showing extremely well a year ago, but now it seems to be showing what it can really do! It has a more classically trained bouquet featuring reserved blackberry and wild strawberry fruit, plus veins of undergrowth, autumn leaves and morels. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Supremely well focused, conveying impressive tension and energy on the finish. Outstanding. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£592.87 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2016 Faugères was already showing extremely well a year ago, but now it seems to be showing what it can really do! It has a more classically trained bouquet featuring reserved blackberry and wild strawberry fruit, plus veins of undergrowth, autumn leaves and morels. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Supremely well focused, conveying impressive tension and energy on the finish. Outstanding. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£363.64 -
Wine Enthusiast (94)
From a vineyard that is now biodynamic, the wine has gained an extra dimension of fruit. At the same time, the tannins give the wine density that will stand it in good stead as it ages. This is for the long term.Inc. VAT£722.47 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2016 Feytit Clinet is a blend of 93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc aged for 16 months in 70% new and 30% one-year-old French oak barrels. It has a deep garnet-purple color with lifted blueberries and black cherries with hints of lilacs, black tea, potpourri, wood smoke and black soil. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated, rich and bold with firm, rounded tannins, seamless freshness and a very long finish with chocolate hints. About 1,583 cases produced.Inc. VAT£1,200.07 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (98+)
The 2016 Figeac has a nose of real pedigree, featuring very well-defined, ferrous black fruit with hints of truffle and tobacco and conveying exceptional mineralité and tension. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a fine bead of acidity and wonderful structure and density toward the finish. This is a seriously fine proposition, although it is a surly Saint-Émilion that may well close down for a while before blazing brightly in 15–20 years’ time. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£2,882.47 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (98+)
The 2016 Figeac has a nose of real pedigree, featuring very well-defined, ferrous black fruit with hints of truffle and tobacco and conveying exceptional mineralité and tension. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a fine bead of acidity and wonderful structure and density toward the finish. This is a seriously fine proposition, although it is a surly Saint-Émilion that may well close down for a while before blazing brightly in 15–20 years’ time. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£3,054.07 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (98+)
The 2016 Figeac has a nose of real pedigree, featuring very well-defined, ferrous black fruit with hints of truffle and tobacco and conveying exceptional mineralité and tension. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a fine bead of acidity and wonderful structure and density toward the finish. This is a seriously fine proposition, although it is a surly Saint-Émilion that may well close down for a while before blazing brightly in 15–20 years’ time. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£1,381.24 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2016 Fombrauge has come together beautifully during its aging and is now a much more refined wine than it was from barrel. Sweet red berry fruit, mocha, espresso, mint and floral notes all grace this exquisite, mid-weight Saint-Émilion. The 2016 is simply impeccable, not to mention incredibly delicious. There is not much more to it than that. Tasted two times.Inc. VAT£416.44 -
Wine Advocate (91)
Composed of 70% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 7% Carménère, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Fonbel has a classic nose of warm red plums, cigar box and black plums with nuances of redcurrants, Sichuan pepper and tar. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a lot of mid-palate fruit with lovely plush tannins and a long refreshing finish.Inc. VAT£578.47 -
Wine Advocate (96+)
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Fonplegade opens with a very savory nose of smoked meats, tapenade, sautéed herbs and beef drippings over a core of plum preserves, chocolate-covered cherries and cedar chest plus wafts of violets and cigars. Medium to full-bodied, the palate possesses both intensity and elegance, with the black fruit layers superbly framed by firm, fine-grained tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.Inc. VAT£535.24 -
Decanter (96)
Power and structure in abundance, but it’s the spellbinding acidity that propels this stunning effort skyward. A shy nose of raspberries and sandalwood opens into a concentrated, long and impressively fruit driven palate (90% Merlot). Still grippy; needs time.Inc. VAT£293.44 -
Wine Advocate (95)
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Gazin features a beautifully perfumed nose of violets, Ceylon tea, cigar box, sandalwood and fallen leaves over a core of plum preserves, kirsch and blackberry preserves plus a waft of aniseed. Medium-bodied and elegant, with compelling restraint, it has a seductively plush texture, finishing with bags of poise, perfume and persistence.Inc. VAT£940.87 -
James Suckling (96)
This has attractive, glossy, ripe red-plum and licorice aromas with cedar, flowers and red berries, as well as a stony edge. A very fragrant, cabernet-driven nose. The palate has elegance and grace with sleek and charming, balanced style and a discreet tannin structure that holds the finish long and fresh. A blend of 81 per cent cabernet sauvignon and 19 per cent merlot. Try from 2023.Inc. VAT£807.67 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96)
The 2016 Gloria is one of the undisputed stars of this vintage. Rich, deep and explosive, the 2016 possesses tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. Sweet red cherry, tobacco, menthol, licorice and dried rose petal all add complexity. In 2016 Gloria is a real head-turner. It should be a fabulous value as well. There is not much else to say.Inc. VAT£456.04 -
James Suckling (93)
Deep, dark and rich fruit, from plums to berries. Full bodied, layered, dense and very rich. Best after 2022.Inc. VAT£167.44 -
Wine Enthusiast (93-95)
Powerful tannins and ripe fruits are the main characters here. With a solid, foursquare character, it is generous and opulent. Tannins and concentration are all there, resulting in a wine with serious aging potential.Inc. VAT£251.44 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (94)
Quite youthful as you would expect, still it is difficult not to be impressed by the concentration, ripeness, elegance, freshness and energy here. Parked on the corner of elegance, freshness and opulence, the fruit shows good purity, length and vibrance. Kuch of what the wine has to offer is held in reserve at the moment. The wine be best after 2026.Inc. VAT£631.27 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (94)
Quite youthful as you would expect, still it is difficult not to be impressed by the concentration, ripeness, elegance, freshness and energy here. Parked on the corner of elegance, freshness and opulence, the fruit shows good purity, length and vibrance. Kuch of what the wine has to offer is held in reserve at the moment. The wine be best after 2026.Inc. VAT£352.24 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (91)
The 2016 Grand Village is a big wine. The natural richness of the year is evident in the wine's exuberant fruit and plush, dense feel. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, sweet spice and lavender all race out of the glass. Today, the ripeness of the vintage is quite evident in the wine's intense profile and overall feel. The 2016 spent 14-15 months in oak, 30% new.Inc. VAT£396.58 -
Decanter (93)
A big vintage of Grand-Puy Ducasse, continuing the ambition shown over recent vintages. The coffee bean aromatics are perfectly judged to give an appealing hint of oak, alongside cedar notes and dark cassis fruits. There is an austerity to the opening beats of the wine, and the tannins make their presence felt right the way through. Overall this is excellent. It is unusual to have such good yields, close to 50hl/ha, with equally good quality. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot.Inc. VAT£391.24 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (97)
The 2016 Grand Puy-Lacoste has a clean, precise bouquet with nicely detailed blackberry, briar and tobacco aromas, touches of mint emerging with time, all utterly charming. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity, conveying a sense of symmetry throughout and leading into a deft, quite persistent finish. This is very classy, and it should age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£931.27 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (97)
The 2016 Grand Puy-Lacoste has a clean, precise bouquet with nicely detailed blackberry, briar and tobacco aromas, touches of mint emerging with time, all utterly charming. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity, conveying a sense of symmetry throughout and leading into a deft, quite persistent finish. This is very classy, and it should age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£677.44 -
James Suckling (95-96)
Full-bodied, layered and juicy young wine. Very tannic yet ripe and intense. Powerful finish. This will be excellent. Better than the 2015.Inc. VAT£914.47 -
James Suckling (98)
Wonderful aromas of tobacco, sweet fruit and licorice follow through to a full body with ultra-fine tannins that caress every inch of your palate. Love the length and subtlety to this young wine. Gorgeous. Drink after 2024.Inc. VAT£2,390.47 -
(6x150cl) 2016James Suckling (98)
Wonderful aromas of tobacco, sweet fruit and licorice follow through to a full body with ultra-fine tannins that caress every inch of your palate. Love the length and subtlety to this young wine. Gorgeous. Drink after 2024.Inc. VAT£1,238.47 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2016 Haut-Batailley was tasted from two bottles, the first showing a touch of TCA. The second has an airy and well-defined bouquet of blackberry, graphite and subtle floral aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-boned tannins and very classic in style, displaying impressive grip. I appreciate the substance toward the finish, and the pencil lead lingering on the aftertaste. This is an outstanding Haut-Batailley. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£277.24 -
The Wine Independent (100)
Composed of 56% Merlot, 37.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 6.5% Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Haut-Brion is deep garnet in color. The nose beings with simple licorice notes before slowly unfurling to deliver growing scents of creme de cassis, plum preserves, dark chocolate, and lilacs, followed by suggestions of crushed rocks, tar, black truffles and cardamom. The full-bodied palate is a tightly coiled spring, taut with black fruit preserves and earthy layers and framed by very firm, grainy tannins, delivering a burst of freshness to carry the long, long, long finish. This will need a good 7-10 more years to fully blossom, and it will be well worth the wait.Inc. VAT£8,358.07
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Wine Enthusiast (96)
This ripe wine is full of great fruit aromas and flavors. Rich, juicy blackberry is combined with intense tannins and ample acidity on the palate. It is a fine summation of the vintage, with opulent fruit that mellows serious tannins. It might seem accessible with all this fruit, but don't be fooled, the wine will need many years.In Bond£866.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (96)
This ripe wine is full of great fruit aromas and flavors. Rich, juicy blackberry is combined with intense tannins and ample acidity on the palate. It is a fine summation of the vintage, with opulent fruit that mellows serious tannins. It might seem accessible with all this fruit, but don't be fooled, the wine will need many years.In Bond£530.00 -
Espérance de Trotanoy is the second wine of Château Trotanoy. This Merlot-dominated wine is made from vines averaging 35 years. Espérance de Trotanoy is made from the same vines, same wine-making team and same facilities as the first wine. It is produced in very limited quantities and only in exceptional years. It is vinified in small concrete vats and aged in French oak barrels.
This 2016 has a darkly berried, gently leafy nose, with pure violet aromatics. The palate is textured, with dried-earth minerality, lifted by arching acidity, which makes this hugely approachable and perhaps offers a glimpse into the character of Trotanoy 2016 itself in years to come. There is more than enough ageing potential and tannic rigour here to see this through a decade and more.In Bond£470.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2016 Faugères was already showing extremely well a year ago, but now it seems to be showing what it can really do! It has a more classically trained bouquet featuring reserved blackberry and wild strawberry fruit, plus veins of undergrowth, autumn leaves and morels. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Supremely well focused, conveying impressive tension and energy on the finish. Outstanding. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.In Bond£462.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2016 Faugères was already showing extremely well a year ago, but now it seems to be showing what it can really do! It has a more classically trained bouquet featuring reserved blackberry and wild strawberry fruit, plus veins of undergrowth, autumn leaves and morels. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Supremely well focused, conveying impressive tension and energy on the finish. Outstanding. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.In Bond£287.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (94)
From a vineyard that is now biodynamic, the wine has gained an extra dimension of fruit. At the same time, the tannins give the wine density that will stand it in good stead as it ages. This is for the long term.In Bond£570.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2016 Feytit Clinet is a blend of 93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc aged for 16 months in 70% new and 30% one-year-old French oak barrels. It has a deep garnet-purple color with lifted blueberries and black cherries with hints of lilacs, black tea, potpourri, wood smoke and black soil. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated, rich and bold with firm, rounded tannins, seamless freshness and a very long finish with chocolate hints. About 1,583 cases produced.In Bond£968.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (98+)
The 2016 Figeac has a nose of real pedigree, featuring very well-defined, ferrous black fruit with hints of truffle and tobacco and conveying exceptional mineralité and tension. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a fine bead of acidity and wonderful structure and density toward the finish. This is a seriously fine proposition, although it is a surly Saint-Émilion that may well close down for a while before blazing brightly in 15–20 years’ time. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.In Bond£2,370.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (98+)
The 2016 Figeac has a nose of real pedigree, featuring very well-defined, ferrous black fruit with hints of truffle and tobacco and conveying exceptional mineralité and tension. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a fine bead of acidity and wonderful structure and density toward the finish. This is a seriously fine proposition, although it is a surly Saint-Émilion that may well close down for a while before blazing brightly in 15–20 years’ time. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.In Bond£2,513.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (98+)
The 2016 Figeac has a nose of real pedigree, featuring very well-defined, ferrous black fruit with hints of truffle and tobacco and conveying exceptional mineralité and tension. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a fine bead of acidity and wonderful structure and density toward the finish. This is a seriously fine proposition, although it is a surly Saint-Émilion that may well close down for a while before blazing brightly in 15–20 years’ time. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.In Bond£1,135.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2016 Fombrauge has come together beautifully during its aging and is now a much more refined wine than it was from barrel. Sweet red berry fruit, mocha, espresso, mint and floral notes all grace this exquisite, mid-weight Saint-Émilion. The 2016 is simply impeccable, not to mention incredibly delicious. There is not much more to it than that. Tasted two times.In Bond£331.00 -
Wine Advocate (91)
Composed of 70% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 7% Carménère, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Fonbel has a classic nose of warm red plums, cigar box and black plums with nuances of redcurrants, Sichuan pepper and tar. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a lot of mid-palate fruit with lovely plush tannins and a long refreshing finish.In Bond£450.00 -
Wine Advocate (96+)
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Fonplegade opens with a very savory nose of smoked meats, tapenade, sautéed herbs and beef drippings over a core of plum preserves, chocolate-covered cherries and cedar chest plus wafts of violets and cigars. Medium to full-bodied, the palate possesses both intensity and elegance, with the black fruit layers superbly framed by firm, fine-grained tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.In Bond£430.00 -
Decanter (96)
Power and structure in abundance, but it’s the spellbinding acidity that propels this stunning effort skyward. A shy nose of raspberries and sandalwood opens into a concentrated, long and impressively fruit driven palate (90% Merlot). Still grippy; needs time.In Bond£228.50 -
Wine Advocate (95)
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Gazin features a beautifully perfumed nose of violets, Ceylon tea, cigar box, sandalwood and fallen leaves over a core of plum preserves, kirsch and blackberry preserves plus a waft of aniseed. Medium-bodied and elegant, with compelling restraint, it has a seductively plush texture, finishing with bags of poise, perfume and persistence.In Bond£752.00 -
James Suckling (96)
This has attractive, glossy, ripe red-plum and licorice aromas with cedar, flowers and red berries, as well as a stony edge. A very fragrant, cabernet-driven nose. The palate has elegance and grace with sleek and charming, balanced style and a discreet tannin structure that holds the finish long and fresh. A blend of 81 per cent cabernet sauvignon and 19 per cent merlot. Try from 2023.In Bond£641.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96)
The 2016 Gloria is one of the undisputed stars of this vintage. Rich, deep and explosive, the 2016 possesses tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. Sweet red cherry, tobacco, menthol, licorice and dried rose petal all add complexity. In 2016 Gloria is a real head-turner. It should be a fabulous value as well. There is not much else to say.In Bond£364.00 -
James Suckling (93)
Deep, dark and rich fruit, from plums to berries. Full bodied, layered, dense and very rich. Best after 2022.In Bond£123.50 -
Wine Enthusiast (93-95)
Powerful tannins and ripe fruits are the main characters here. With a solid, foursquare character, it is generous and opulent. Tannins and concentration are all there, resulting in a wine with serious aging potential.In Bond£193.50 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (94)
Quite youthful as you would expect, still it is difficult not to be impressed by the concentration, ripeness, elegance, freshness and energy here. Parked on the corner of elegance, freshness and opulence, the fruit shows good purity, length and vibrance. Kuch of what the wine has to offer is held in reserve at the moment. The wine be best after 2026.In Bond£494.00 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (94)
Quite youthful as you would expect, still it is difficult not to be impressed by the concentration, ripeness, elegance, freshness and energy here. Parked on the corner of elegance, freshness and opulence, the fruit shows good purity, length and vibrance. Kuch of what the wine has to offer is held in reserve at the moment. The wine be best after 2026.In Bond£277.50 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (91)
The 2016 Grand Village is a big wine. The natural richness of the year is evident in the wine's exuberant fruit and plush, dense feel. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, sweet spice and lavender all race out of the glass. Today, the ripeness of the vintage is quite evident in the wine's intense profile and overall feel. The 2016 spent 14-15 months in oak, 30% new.In Bond£292.00 -
Decanter (93)
A big vintage of Grand-Puy Ducasse, continuing the ambition shown over recent vintages. The coffee bean aromatics are perfectly judged to give an appealing hint of oak, alongside cedar notes and dark cassis fruits. There is an austerity to the opening beats of the wine, and the tannins make their presence felt right the way through. Overall this is excellent. It is unusual to have such good yields, close to 50hl/ha, with equally good quality. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot.In Bond£310.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (97)
The 2016 Grand Puy-Lacoste has a clean, precise bouquet with nicely detailed blackberry, briar and tobacco aromas, touches of mint emerging with time, all utterly charming. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity, conveying a sense of symmetry throughout and leading into a deft, quite persistent finish. This is very classy, and it should age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.In Bond£744.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (97)
The 2016 Grand Puy-Lacoste has a clean, precise bouquet with nicely detailed blackberry, briar and tobacco aromas, touches of mint emerging with time, all utterly charming. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity, conveying a sense of symmetry throughout and leading into a deft, quite persistent finish. This is very classy, and it should age with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.In Bond£548.50 -
James Suckling (95-96)
Full-bodied, layered and juicy young wine. Very tannic yet ripe and intense. Powerful finish. This will be excellent. Better than the 2015.In Bond£730.00 -
James Suckling (98)
Wonderful aromas of tobacco, sweet fruit and licorice follow through to a full body with ultra-fine tannins that caress every inch of your palate. Love the length and subtlety to this young wine. Gorgeous. Drink after 2024.In Bond£1,960.00 -
(6x150cl) 2016
James Suckling (98)
Wonderful aromas of tobacco, sweet fruit and licorice follow through to a full body with ultra-fine tannins that caress every inch of your palate. Love the length and subtlety to this young wine. Gorgeous. Drink after 2024.In Bond£1,000.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2016 Haut-Batailley was tasted from two bottles, the first showing a touch of TCA. The second has an airy and well-defined bouquet of blackberry, graphite and subtle floral aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-boned tannins and very classic in style, displaying impressive grip. I appreciate the substance toward the finish, and the pencil lead lingering on the aftertaste. This is an outstanding Haut-Batailley. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.In Bond£215.00 -
The Wine Independent (100)
Composed of 56% Merlot, 37.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 6.5% Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Haut-Brion is deep garnet in color. The nose beings with simple licorice notes before slowly unfurling to deliver growing scents of creme de cassis, plum preserves, dark chocolate, and lilacs, followed by suggestions of crushed rocks, tar, black truffles and cardamom. The full-bodied palate is a tightly coiled spring, taut with black fruit preserves and earthy layers and framed by very firm, grainy tannins, delivering a burst of freshness to carry the long, long, long finish. This will need a good 7-10 more years to fully blossom, and it will be well worth the wait.In Bond£6,933.00
Bordeaux's relatively diverse weather, particularly its rainfall, means that vintage variation can be quite broad between some years. However advances in wine making techniques, technology and investment has meant that many chateaux are still able to create very good wines in "lesser vintages". From the best vintages wines are made that are clambered for all over the world and mature excellently for many years.
This is a selection of some of our favourite vintages from Bordeaux over the last few decades, as well some more recent ones.
