Bordeaux 2016, Ten Years On

We believe Baron de Brane to be one of the finest Second Wines in Bordeaux, and the 2016 vintage is one of the finest in recent memory so we were more than happy to snap up a late release parcel for our members. Now firmly within its drinking window this Margaux shows the typical floral perfume of the appellation, alongside tertiary notes of dried rose petals, cranberries and graphite.

Elegance and charm are characteristics of this property`s wines, and both are here in abundance. The cabernet sauvignon (68% of the final blend) gives the wine its benchmark left-bank feel.

A Wine Champion in our own blind tastings this year, this deservedly popular property used a high proportion of perfectly ripe cabernet sauvignon (85%) in 2016 – often a clear sign of a great vintage in Bordeaux’s most lauded appellation. Lovely texture with fine-grained tannins and a polished sweetness on the palate. A delicious Batailley.

A harmonious, well-balanced wine with hints of blackcurrant and oyster shell on the nose and a graceful, layered palate. A very fine Langoa with the structure to mature gracefully for many years yet.

Saint-Julien was one of the most successful communes this year, and the Saint Pierre is delicious. Harmoniously balanced with plenty of depth and ripeness, this has all the constituents for a long life in bottle. A classic.

A wine that is made to be approachable when relatively young, and consistently one of the best value Pauillacs on the market, the 2016 is a blend of 61% cabernet sauvignon, 29% merlot and 10% cabernet franc. Stylish red-fruit character with fine, silky tannins and an appetising, bright finish.