Château Belle-Vue Haut-Médoc, Cru Bourgeois 2016

This well-textured, smooth wine is rich in dusty tannins and ripe black-currant fruits. With almost equal proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine offers ripe perfumes, spice and fruitiness that is now maturing. Drink now. 13.5.% ABV.

Blended of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and 20% Petit Verdot, the 2016 Belle-Vue has a medium to deep garnet-purple colour and nose of spice box, cedar chest and oolong tea with a core of red and black currants plus a waft of chargrill. The palate is medium-bodied, fresh, soft and juicy with a lovely burst of black fruit in the mouth leading to a savoury finish. Nearly 900 cases were made. 89 Points Robert Parker and 91 Points Wine Enthusiast.