2016 Belle Vue (Haut Medoc)
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Tasting notes
This estate did a great job in 2016 (since 2021 it is owned by Treasury Wine Estates, and I believe no longer bottled under the name). Expect blackberry fruits, creamy textured tannins, confident architecture and a juicy finish. Fully in its drinking window, exactly what you want from a Cru Bourgeois. This was my last bottle, and I was sorry to see it go, but it looks like it is still pretty easy to track down, as far as I can see on a quick internet search. Vineyard located in Macau, just to the south of Margaux (separated from the AOC by a single small stream or jalle), beautiful gravel and pebbles that head down around 10m. 30% new oak.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Wine Spectator
More reviews and scores
Quite spicy, fresh, floral and full-bodied, with a ripe, round blast of fruit and spice, good concentration and lush textures. 91 Points
45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 20% Petit Verdot. 30% new oak for 12 months. Deep lively crimson. Sweet-fruited and primary on the nose. Ripe cassis and blackberry, very aromatic. The oak shows a little more on the palate in cedary freshness. Tannins are fine and definite but coated by the fruit. GV (JH)
The 2016 Château Belle-Vue is one awesome Haut-Médoc as well as an incredible value. Deeply colored, with a powerful bouquet of crème de cassis, black cherries, leafy herbs, and earth, it’s medium to full-bodied, has ultra-fine tannins and fabulous balance. A blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 20% Petit Verdot, aged in 30% new French oak, it’s almost too good to be true and should be snatched up by readers.