Chateau Cantemerle 2016, Haut Medoc, Bordeaux

Chateau Cantemerle is a Cinquièmes Cru (5th Growth) from the famous 1855 Classification (the last wine classified seemingly*) and always performs! the 2016 vintage is a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot.

The 2016 Château Cantemerle has a bright but intense ruby-red colour.
On the nose, you'll get a complex and aromatic bouquet - notes of ripe red and black fruits (blackberries, cherries, plums) interwoven with subtle hints of cedar, tobacco, and a touch of earthiness. The aroma is inviting and reveals the wine's depth.
In the mouth, it elegant and well-balanced, medium to full bodied with refined tannins that provide structure without being overpowering. The wine offers a harmonious blend of fruit flavors, with blackcurrant and raspberry being prominent. There are also notes of spices, vanilla, and a hint of mocha, which add layers of complexity. The acidity is refreshing, contributing to a lively and persistent finish.

Drinking superbly now, it will age for the medium term so consume over the next 7-10 years.

The Château Cantemerle 2016 is a classic example of Haut Medoc from a great vintage. It is a structured yet approachable style, perfect for both immediate enjoyment and medium term aging, making it a versatile and highly regarded Bordeaux offering

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate says
89 Points (Very Good) Medium garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cantemerle offers up warm plums, black cherries and mulberries with an earth and bay leaves undercurrent. The palate is medium-bodied with just enough fruit and pleasantly chewy tannins, finishing with an herbal lift. Drink til 2028.

Wine Spectator says
90 Points (Outstanding) Starts with a violet note but turns darker quickly, with dark currant and black cherry preserve flavors forming the core. Nice fresh tobacco and iron details carry the mouthwatering finish. Not big, but focused and tasty. Drink now through 2030.

Chateau Cantemerle 2016 is packed in wooden 6 btl cases

Did you know??? Chateau Cantemerle is surrounded by a 28 hectare (69 acre) park which is how it got it's name! Cantemerle means 'Song of the Blackbird' - Canta (song) Merla (blackbird). You can read all about it at https://cantemerle.com/en/

Alc. Vol. 13%

Last Tasted: April 2024

*This is a good story! Cantemerle was the last 5th Growth listed in 1855 and seemingly was not on the initial list (but is on all Lists of Classified wines since). Some lists of the 1855 Classification still put an asterix beside Cantemerle's name! Wikepedia have it marked as 1856 for some reason. You can google Cantemerle if you want to read about it!