Pronounced vanilla and full black cherries on the nose. Quite a generous, fleshy wine for this appellation in 2016. Rather soft tannins add a touch of warmth at the finish, balancing the cool acidity. Good length and harmony at the moderately dry finish. A blend of 70 per cent merlot and 30 per cent cabernet sauvignon.
The red 2016 Château Lespault-Martillac is also outstanding. Based on 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, from vines next to Domaine de Chevalier, this beauty boasts a medium-bodied, supple, elegant style as well as lots of Merlot character in its black cherries, violets, spice, and earthy, herbal, underbrush notes. It’s very much in the classic, balanced, elegant style of the vintage, and while it has plenty of upfront charm, it will benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for 15 years or more.
