Chateau Cantemerle, 2016

ABOUT THE WINE. Château Cantemerle is one of the oldest estates in the Médoc, with records dating to the 12th century. A Fifth Growth (1855) based in Macau, Haut-Médoc, its deep gravel close to the Gironde gives Cabernet-led wines of finesse, perfume and longevity. Since 1981, sustained investment has returned Cantemerle to the front ranks of classed growths.. TASTING NOTES – 2016 VINTAGE. A superb, classically styled Left Bank claret. Cassis, blackberry and violets unfold with cedar, tobacco, graphite and bay. The palate is medium-bodied yet concentrated, with fine-grained, silky tannins, bright 2016 freshness and a long, mineral-tinged finish. Poised and refined now, with decades ahead.. FOOD PAIRING. Roast lamb with rosemary, grilled ribeye, duck breast with cherry, or wild mushroom dishes. Excellent with firm, nutty cheeses like Comté or aged Gouda.. FRIARWOOD SAYS. A benchmark Cantemerle 2016—elegant, aromatic and beautifully proportioned. Decant 45–60 minutes if drinking now. Best 2025–2042+.