Jeb Dunnuck (96)

I was able to taste the 2016 Château Beychevelle on two occasions, and it showed beautifully both times. This is also the first vintage made in the new cellar. Medium to full-bodied, incredibly seamless and elegant on the palate, yet beautifully concentrated, it offers a heavenly perfume of spring flowers, violets, saddle leather, and blueberry and cassis fruit. A blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and the rest Cabernet Franc, brought up in 50% new oak, it’s still tight, taunt, and reserved on the palate, yet has the hallmark purity of fruit and balance of the vintage front and center. Hide bottles for 4-6 years, and it will keep for 25+ years or more.

Vinous - Neal Martin (92)

The 2016 Bibian has a tightly-wound bouquet that demands more coaxing than its peers, eventually revealing pure blackberries, raspberry, cedar and light mint aromas. The oak here is nicely integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, very pure and polished with some classy new oak assiduously blended. This is a classy offering and one of the best Cru Bourgeois that I have tasted this vintage. Tasted at the Cru Bourgeois tasting in London.

Jeb Dunnuck (93)

The 2016 L'Evangile Blason de l'Evangile is another brilliant second wine that delivers the goods. Showing a more upfront, fruit-loaded, opulent style, it gives up tons of cassis fruits, tobacco, incense, dried herbs, and graphite. With no hard edges, a full-bodied, rounded, sexy texture, and a great finish, it's a sexy, sexy Pomerol to drink over the coming 10-15 years, if not longer.

Jeb Dunnuck (93)

The 2016 L'Evangile Blason de l'Evangile is another brilliant second wine that delivers the goods. Showing a more upfront, fruit-loaded, opulent style, it gives up tons of cassis fruits, tobacco, incense, dried herbs, and graphite. With no hard edges, a full-bodied, rounded, sexy texture, and a great finish, it's a sexy, sexy Pomerol to drink over the coming 10-15 years, if not longer.

James Suckling (94-95)

Extremely dense, fruity and full-bodied, yet it’s also tight and very refined with silky tannins and a flavorful finish. This is something in the making. Best in years.

Wine Spectator (96)

The core of this red is loaded with pure plum, blueberry and black currant fruit flavors. The polished structure is integrated, with alluring ganache, anise and sweet tobacco notes throughout, all in a polished and balanced frame. A very classy red that isn't shy about its power but pushes its purity to the fore. Best from 2024 through 2039.

Wine Advocate (96-98)

The 2016 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Carmenere picked from 22 September until 17 October (the tiny parcel of Carmenere picked three days later). The yields came in at 51 hectoliters per hectare and it is matured in 75% new oak and 25% one-year-old barrels, the final alcohol level 13.3%. It has a beautifully defined, very detailed bouquet with mineral-rich black fruit laced with cedar and graphite notes, living up to its nom de plume as the Pauillac of Margaux. The palate is simply the best that I have ever tasted at the estate, without question. This has presence, but also weightlessness, filigree tannin and perfectly pitched acidity, with real intensity and drive. The tension here is outstanding and the persistence is incredibly long. It is not the showiest of all the 2016s by a long stretch, and yet it is everything you could possibly want from a Margaux. Like Beychevelle this year, the 2016 Brane-Cantenac puts recent vintages in the shade, thanks not only to the growing season, but also a new punching down system in their gravity-fed winery that was completed in 2015. The 2016 is a benchmark against which future vintages will be compared.

Wine Advocate (96-98)

The 2016 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Carmenere picked from 22 September until 17 October (the tiny parcel of Carmenere picked three days later). The yields came in at 51 hectoliters per hectare and it is matured in 75% new oak and 25% one-year-old barrels, the final alcohol level 13.3%. It has a beautifully defined, very detailed bouquet with mineral-rich black fruit laced with cedar and graphite notes, living up to its nom de plume as the Pauillac of Margaux. The palate is simply the best that I have ever tasted at the estate, without question. This has presence, but also weightlessness, filigree tannin and perfectly pitched acidity, with real intensity and drive. The tension here is outstanding and the persistence is incredibly long. It is not the showiest of all the 2016s by a long stretch, and yet it is everything you could possibly want from a Margaux. Like Beychevelle this year, the 2016 Brane-Cantenac puts recent vintages in the shade, thanks not only to the growing season, but also a new punching down system in their gravity-fed winery that was completed in 2015. The 2016 is a benchmark against which future vintages will be compared.

Introducing Brown 2016, a remarkable vintage capturing the essence of the finest vineyards nestled in Napa Valley, California. As an expert wine connoisseur, I can confidently affirm that the Brown 2016 is an exemplar of premium and complex winemaking.

Characterised by an enticing blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel, Brown 2016 is hand-harvested and aged for 18 months in French oak barriques, lending it a lush, full-bodied profile. Its striking bouquet of ripe blackberries, toasted spices, and a hint of mocha deliver palate-pleasing complexity. The exhilaratingly long finish leaves a lasting impression on the taste buds.

Produced by Brown Estate, a family-owned entity with a rich winemaking heritage, Brown 2016 embodies their commitment to sustainable viticulture and meticulous craftsmanship, transcending ordinary oenological boundaries. This wine exemplifies what can be achieved when tradition meets innovation, a symphony of flavours in a bottle. Savour the Brown 2016 experience, an unmissable addition for discerning collectors and wine enthusiasts alike.

Discover the exquisite sophistication of the 'Brown Blanc 2016', an extraordinary testament to the quintessential art of wine-making. This exceptional creation hails from the prominent vineyards of Bordeaux, France. The illustrious Brown Blanc, renowned for the immaculate quality of their wines, brings forth the 2016 vintage, meticulously produced under the watchful supervision of their veteran winemakers.

The Brown Blanc 2016 delivers an enchanting bouquet of invigorating citrus, subtle white blossom, and earthy undertones. Its judicious fermentation process and strategic barrel ageing lend it a nuanced texture and complexity. The terroir, influenced by the gravel-clay soils and mild climate, imparts character and depth to this white wine. With its elegant finish and captivating complexity, the 'Brown Blanc 2016' remarkably reflects the noble spirit of Bordeaux wines.

Relish the ethereal experience of this eminent wine that honours tradition, meticulous craftsmanship, and the unique 'terroir' of its origin. The 'Brown Blanc 2016' is a dazzling embodiment of unmatched finesse and outstanding quality.

Embodied with a harmony of rich characteristics, Calicem 2016 exhibits the marvellous elegance of a finely crafted Bordeaux red wine. The beauty of this blend starts in Bordeaux's celebrated vineyards of Medoc, where the most delicate Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes flourish. Using traditional French winemaking practices with an exquisite touch of modernity, the wine is matured for 18 months in oak barrels, infusing it with an intricate infusion of spiced and woody notes.

The genius behind Calicem 2016 is Patrice Lévêque, a renowned oenologist who cultivates his wines with an unwavering focus on precision and quality. The result is an enchanting wine with a remarkable structure and a complex bouquet of black fruit, cedar and spice, underpinned by velvety tannins. A seamless fusion of depth and balance, Calicem 2016 captures the essence of Bordeaux's terroir, offering a distinguished drinking experience to refined palates. A witness to the timeless art of French viticulture, Calicem 2016 is pure pleasure poured into a glass.

James Suckling (98-99)

Wow. This is the Calon we have been waiting for! Intensity and power. Chewy and polished tannins. Full body, great depth. It goes on for minutes. Shows a classic, historical character that really excites me. The essence of this estate and St.-Estèphe. Best ever?

James Suckling (92-93)

A tangy and dense red with plum, chocolate and berry character. Full body, chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows excellent upside. Nice follow-up to the excellent 2015.

Wine Advocate (98+)

Composed of 74% Merlot and 26% Cabernet Franc and aged for 18 months in 70% new French barriques, the 2016 Canon is medium to deep garnet-purple in color, and—WOW—it opens with the most stunning perfume of violets, red roses and kirsch, giving way to a core of black cherry preserves, chocolate box, licorice, warm plums and Chinese five spice plus an earthy waft of underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely filled with expressive, perfumed black berry layers accented by lively red fruits and exotic spices, supported by impressively fine-grained tannins and fantastic tension, finishing very long with jaw-dropping energy. Tasted three times, I had one opportunity to taste the 2015 and 2016 Canon side by side. While I love the bold, rich, seductive nature of the 2015, this 2016 kicks it up a notch in terms of polish, precision, depth and persistence. Most notably, the superbly ripe, exquisitely fine-grained tannins on this 2016 bring to the table a whole other level of sophistication. Bravo!

Wine Advocate (98+)

Composed of 74% Merlot and 26% Cabernet Franc and aged for 18 months in 70% new French barriques, the 2016 Canon is medium to deep garnet-purple in color, and—WOW—it opens with the most stunning perfume of violets, red roses and kirsch, giving way to a core of black cherry preserves, chocolate box, licorice, warm plums and Chinese five spice plus an earthy waft of underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely filled with expressive, perfumed black berry layers accented by lively red fruits and exotic spices, supported by impressively fine-grained tannins and fantastic tension, finishing very long with jaw-dropping energy. Tasted three times, I had one opportunity to taste the 2015 and 2016 Canon side by side. While I love the bold, rich, seductive nature of the 2015, this 2016 kicks it up a notch in terms of polish, precision, depth and persistence. Most notably, the superbly ripe, exquisitely fine-grained tannins on this 2016 bring to the table a whole other level of sophistication. Bravo!

Wine Advocate (98+)

Composed of 74% Merlot and 26% Cabernet Franc and aged for 18 months in 70% new French barriques, the 2016 Canon is medium to deep garnet-purple in color, and—WOW—it opens with the most stunning perfume of violets, red roses and kirsch, giving way to a core of black cherry preserves, chocolate box, licorice, warm plums and Chinese five spice plus an earthy waft of underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely filled with expressive, perfumed black berry layers accented by lively red fruits and exotic spices, supported by impressively fine-grained tannins and fantastic tension, finishing very long with jaw-dropping energy. Tasted three times, I had one opportunity to taste the 2015 and 2016 Canon side by side. While I love the bold, rich, seductive nature of the 2015, this 2016 kicks it up a notch in terms of polish, precision, depth and persistence. Most notably, the superbly ripe, exquisitely fine-grained tannins on this 2016 bring to the table a whole other level of sophistication. Bravo!

A radiant gem among fine wines, Canon Chaigneau 2016 hails from the heartland of French viticulture, Bordeaux's esteemed Lalande-de-Pomerol. A meticulouly-crafted blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, it owes its elegance and structure to vines averaging 35 years of age gracing gravel over clay soils. Its birth in stainless steel vats was followed by a dexterous finessing for 13 months in French oak barrels.

An instance of Château Chaigneau's exemplary stewardship, Canon Chaigneau 2016 offers an aromatic barrage of ripe black fruits, notes of truffle, and an endearing undercurrent of minerality, culminating in a finish that lingers delicately on the palate. As it distances from its well-rounded youth, it unfurls into a richer, more complex marvel, a testament to the deft marriage of terroir and traditional vinification. Capturing the quintessence of Bordeaux's winemaking pedigree, Canon Chaigneau 2016 remains a cherished offering from Château Chaigneau.

The Wine Independent (98)

The 2016 Canon la Gaffeliere has a deep garnet color. It bursts on the scene with exuberant notes of juicy blackberries, plum preserves, and fruit cake, plus suggestions of clove oil, mocha, and Indian spices. The full-bodied palate is full-on rich and decadent, featuring velvety tannins and just enough freshness to match the concentrated black fruit and spicy layers, finishing with epic length.

The Wine Independent (98)

The 2016 Canon la Gaffeliere has a deep garnet color. It bursts on the scene with exuberant notes of juicy blackberries, plum preserves, and fruit cake, plus suggestions of clove oil, mocha, and Indian spices. The full-bodied palate is full-on rich and decadent, featuring velvety tannins and just enough freshness to match the concentrated black fruit and spicy layers, finishing with epic length.

Wine Enthusiast (95)

This is another successful vintage from this estate. It is so finely structured that you notice the blackberry fruit more than the tannins, with a seam of crisp acidity throughout.

Vinous - Neal Martin (95)

The 2016 Cantenac Brown seems to have grown aromatically since I last tasted it a few months ago. More complex than I remember, this offers a cornucopia of scents: blackberry, briary, cedar and a lovely mintiness that recalls Palmer. The palate is silky smooth with great depth and delineation, satin-like, multi-layered, precocious black fruit laced with black pepper, tea leaves and cloves, all fanning out gloriously towards the finish. Bon vin! Tasted at the Cantenac Brown vertical at the château.

An exceptional Bordeaux blend, Cap Saint George 2016 from France’s prestigious Saint Georges Saint Émilion appellation, impresses with sumptuous flavours and distinguished pedigree. This regal blend expertly marries Cabernet Franc and Merlot, cultivated in the esteemed vineyards of JCP Maltus, distinguished producers of world-class wines since 1994. Cap Saint George 2016 is awash with the prestige of the 'clay-limestone' soil in which its grapes have flourished, yielding a pronounced flavour profile.

This liquescent treasure unveils intoxicating aromas of ripe red fruit layered with subtle mocha nuances. On the palate, it is beautifully balanced, showing poised tannins and an elegant, lingering finish. The wine’s complexity has been honed through 18 months in new and one-year-old French oak barrels, adding layers of sophistication. Fans of Cap Saint George 2016 can expect a wine that captures the quintessence of the exceptional terroir from which it springs.

James Suckling (92-93)

Love the stone, tar and black currant in this. Full and tight with firm and silky tannins and a long, long finish. Spicy, too. Can’t wait to see how this evolves. Serious.

James Suckling (94-95)

The most tannic and textured Carruades ever. Full-bodied, big and powerful. Very, very long. New style?

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)

The 2016 Certan de May is a powerful, dense wine, just as it was en primeur. A blast of grilled herbs, leather, smoke, tobacco, licorice and dark-fleshed fruits makes a strong opening statement. Potent and strap in feel, Certan de May shows the more virile side of Pomerol. The profile is decidedly sepia-toned. Readers should plan on being patient with the 2016. It is a jewel of a wine that just needs bottle age to be at its best.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)

The 2016 Certan de May is a powerful, dense wine, just as it was en primeur. A blast of grilled herbs, leather, smoke, tobacco, licorice and dark-fleshed fruits makes a strong opening statement. Potent and strap in feel, Certan de May shows the more virile side of Pomerol. The profile is decidedly sepia-toned. Readers should plan on being patient with the 2016. It is a jewel of a wine that just needs bottle age to be at its best.

Vinous - Neal Martin (95)

The 2016 Chapelle d’Ausone offers intense black cherries, raspberry coulis and marmalade aromas on the nose, manifesting more delineation in the glass over the course of 10–15 minutes. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, very pure black fruit and tangible mineralité and tension on the finish. This is pure class, a wine of nobility and deliciousness. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

Vinous - Neal Martin (95)

The 2016 Chapelle d’Ausone offers intense black cherries, raspberry coulis and marmalade aromas on the nose, manifesting more delineation in the glass over the course of 10–15 minutes. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, very pure black fruit and tangible mineralité and tension on the finish. This is pure class, a wine of nobility and deliciousness. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

Vinous - Neal Martin (90)

The 2016 Croizet-Bages has an open and engaging bouquet, a mélange of red and black fruit laced with cedar and subtle mint aromas. The oak here is nicely integrated. The palate is well balanced with supple tannins matched with a fine bead of acidity. It displays a tad more “rondeur” than its peers thanks to some expressive Merlot and fans out on the finish. A Croizet-Bages that “leaves the customer satisfied.