2016 Balestard la Tonnelle
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Tasting notes
Tangy and fruity at the same time with blackberry and blueberry character. Medium to full body, integrated tannins and a fresh and clean finish. All here. Mar 2017, www.jamessuckling.com
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
A hint of very sweet, almost vanilla oak on the nose. Then savoury and some definite oak influence on the palate. The tannins are a bit chunky. Doesn't quite hang together at the moment though it may do eventually. Apr 2017, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2025-2040
This is an estate that has gone long on extraction in recent years and just about stops short in 2016. This is still a contemporary, big interpretation of St-Émilion that performs some clever sleight of hand to stop before the wall. Dramatic and enjoyable, with notes of liquorice and black olive paste. Apr 2017, www.decanter.com, Drink: 2025-2040
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Balestard la Tonnelle opens with cedar, menthol, black cherries and black raspberries aromas with herbs and Indian spices. The palate is medium-bodied, firm and chewy with a spicy finish. Nov 2018, www.robertparker.com