Château Cantemerle Haut-Médoc

Château Cantemerle is one of the oldest estates in the Haut-Médoc — vines have been cultivated here since the 16th century, and since the classification of 1855, the estate has held the title of Cinquième Cru Classé. The vines grow on gravelly, well-drained soils near Macau, south of Margaux.

In the glass, it shows a dark ruby red with violet reflections. On the nose, ripe black cherries, blue forest berries, and wild raspberries, plus a hint of cherry blossom and plum jam. On the palate, clearly structured with velvety tannins, notes of licorice and tobacco in the background, long-lasting finish with discreet spice.

• Grape varieties: classic Médoc assemblage, Cabernet Sauvignon dominated
• Temperature: 16–18 °C, ideally decant one hour beforehand
• Food: Rack of lamb with herb crust, entrecôte, mature Comté

The 2016 vintage was rated 90 points by Wine Spectator — solid proof of the quality of a classic that shows Bordeaux craftsmanship without grand gestures.