Bordeaux 2016 Médoc Pessac-Léognan Graves Sauternes By Derek Smedley MW Last Updated 4/28/2018 Derek Smedley MW, Rectory Cottage, Lilley, Hertfordshire, LU2 8LU. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Tasting notes from the following growers: Contents Saint-Estèphe... 4 Pauillac... 6 Saint-Julien... 10 Margaux... 13 Moulis... 16 Listrac... 16 Haut-Médoc... 17 Médoc... 18 Pessac-Léognan Rouge... 19 Pessac-Léognan Blanc... 21 Graves Rouge... 22 Graves Blanc... 23 Sauternes... 23 Barsac... 24 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 2
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Bordeaux 2016 Médoc / Pessac-Léognan / Graves / Sauternes / Barsac Tasted in Bordeaux En-Primeur April 2017 Tasted on other occasions - see date & place in italics An excellent vintage full of life, vibrant wines with the tannins wrapped up in the richness of the fruit. In my 50+ years of tasting wines at this stage out of cask it is difficult to relate it to a past vintage perhaps 1986 but better handled tannins. I found that many of the wines had precision and balance with the wines from the Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac and Saint-Julien having a consistency not seen in many of the recent vintages. In the Médoc and Haut-Médoc there are wines that will give pleasure as long as price is right. Pessac-Léognan was a bit up and down, Saint-Emilon some wonderful wines with less emphasis on oak and over extraction and in Pomerol the Merlot did well, opulence yet a balancing freshness. The dry whites have purity but some lack acidity so not long keepers. Sauternes produced attractive wines rich, ripe and sweet but some lacking tension and a balancing freshness, a good but not great vintage. The weather - a mild, wet winter which was followed by a dull and humid spring, concern that the mild winter had not killed off the dormant spores and there was a high risk of fungal disease. March to the beginning of June was very wet but a break in the rain 5 th 10 th June allowed the flowering to go ahead without problem. The rain stopped in mid June and there was a dramatic improvement in the weather which allayed the worries over mildew. July and August were hot and dry and this weather continued into September, the vines began to struggle especially the young vines on free draining and gravel soils. Veraison (changing of the colour) took place at the end of July / beginning of August and was speedy and uniform. Rain on the 13 th September brought a welcome relief, photo-synthesis started again, ripening was accelerated with no worries of dilution as the soil was dry and the skins thick. The hot days were complemented by cooler nights important as this enabled the grapes to ripen slowly, to keep much needed acidity and retain an attractive aromatic freshness. The picking of Merlot on the right bank started at the end of September quickly followed by the Merlot in the Médoc with the Cabernets picked over a more leisurely period. The whole harvest took place over a long period starting at the end of September and finishing in the third week of October. If the châteaux raise their prices over those of 2015 (and they will the rumour is by 10%) this combined with the present weakness of sterling will make it hard to recommend buying at this stage. Claret 9/10 Keep Sauternes 9/10 Keep 3 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Saint-Estèphe Château Beausite 84-87 2024-35 Cassis and black cherry both nose and palate has depth of flavour. The mid palate is firm and fresh but the tannins a bit tight. Light at the back bramble and bilberry the finish just lacks a bit of richness. Château Le Boscq 85-88 2025-35 The fruit on the nose is fresh the palate firm with a mix of black cherry and cassis. There is a sweeter feel to the fruit in the middle more depth and richness at the back but the tannins are very firm and tend to dry the fruit on the finish. Château Calon-Ségur 3eme Cru 89-94 2027-45 The nose is firm the start of the palate tight but there is mid richness sweeter richer black fruits. The tannins are surrounded by rich black fruits firm but integrated and the finish has fair depth of flavour concentration yet freshness. Château Capbern 88-91 2024-35 The fruit on the nose is fresh the start of the palate tight with firm tannins in the middle. Sweeter towards the back some concentrated flavours the finish is bright with a mix of bramble and black cherry. Château Cos d Estournel 2eme Cru 93-96 2026-41 Inky on the nose the palate has concentrated black fruits depth of flavour. The fruit is ripe mid suppleness silky tannins purity of fruit there is enough freshness to balance and lighten harmony and although firm at the back the finish is rich, supple with ripe black fruits. Château Cos Labory 5eme Cru 86-89 2026-38 The nose is quite tight the start of the palate firm with concentrated black fruits. The rich fruit in the middle is supported by firm tannins the back palate a bit tight but is does open up on the finish with depth of flavour. Château Le Crock 85-88 2025-35 Fresh black fruits the nose is firm and fresh the palate has a mix of bramble and cassis. Concentrated fruit the mid palate has fair depth and although sweet at the back the finish is fresh and quite tight. Dame de Montrose 89-92 2025-40 2 nd wine of Château Montrose www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 4
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Depth richness the nose has a lot of powerful black fruits the palate has concentrated black cherry and cassis. The tannins are firm but well integrated the back palate has depth a brooding richness the finish fresher peppery cassis and cherry. Château Lafon-Rochet 4eme Cru 87-90 2025-40 The nose is closed the start of the palate tight with firm structured tannins. Black cherry and cassis the mid palate has a richer feel fair depth at the back but the finish is firm and quite tight. Château Meyney 86-89 2025-38 The fruit on the nose is fresh the palate firm black cherry and cassis underpinned by tight tannins. It does fill out towards the back sweeter fruit but tannic firmness tends to dominate and hold back the fruit on the finish. Château Montrose 2eme Cru 94-96 2025-44 Brooding black fruits the nose has a powerful mix of flavours the palate depth with firm black cherry and cassis backed by liquorice. Underpinning the rich fruit mid bramble gives a lighter fresher feel the tannins are firm but integrated and there is sweetness and richness at the back. Château Ormes de Pez 86-89 2025-38 There is not a lot of fruit showing on the nose the start of the palate tight the tannins firm and obvious. More depth in the middle some rich black fruits but freshness and tannic firmness tend to dry the finish. Tasted at the Château Mercers visit March 2018 90 2025-38 The nose has a touch of spice fresh black fruits more concentrated on the palate black cherry and sloe. Fresh fruits come through towards the back the tannins still firm the back palate a bit tight but there is rich fruit on the finish. Pagodes de Cos 92-94 2025-40 2 nd wine of Château Cos d Estournel The cassis and cherry mix is sweet the fruit rich and fleshy supported by firm but ripe tannins. There is underlying freshness lighter at the back with rich black cherry on the finish. Château de Pez 84-87 2025-36 Brooding black fruits on the nose the start of the palate is firm the tannins structured and tight. There is some sweet fruit towards the back rich black cherry but it tends to lack depth on the finish and there is just a hint of dryness. Château Phélan-Ségur 90-93 2025-41 The nose is bright with bramble and bilberry the start of the palate fresh the mid palate rich with concentrated black cherry the fruit underpinned by firm but fine tannins. Ripe and rich at the back the finish is brighter with fresh fruits nice length. Château Tronquoy-Lalande 86-88 2025-36 5 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 The nose is closed the palate firm with quite obvious tannins. The mid palate has some sweetness but behind the richer flavours it is firm and slightly green stalk. Pauillac Château d Armailhac 5eme Cru 89-92 2026-42 The black fruits on the nose are sweet the start of the palate has depth of fruit. Lighter and firmer in the middle there is underlying freshness bright at the back with sweet fruit richness on the finish. Château Batailley 5eme Cru 90-93 2026-43 Brooding richness both nose and palate have concentrated black fruits. Rich fruit in the middle the tannins are firm but ripe the back palate has depth and sweetness but there is enough acidity to balance the finish is quite restrained. Château Bellegrave 86-89 2025-37 Concentrated fruit on the nose the start of the palate has depth of fruit a mix of cassis and black cherry. There is underlying freshness lighter at the back with sweet fruit giving more depth and richness on the finish. Carruades de Lafite 87-89 2025-36 2 nd wine of Château Lafite The nose has fresh fruits quite firm the palate starts with concentrated flavours rich black cherry and sloe. Rich and ripe in the middle the tannins wrapped round by rich fruit. Sweet at the back the sweet fruit is underpinned and balanced by freshness but it tends to dry on the finish. Château Clerc-Milon 5eme Cru 90-95 2026-41 The nose has a mix of fruits quite fragrant and fresh the fruit on the palate is ripe mid suppleness and flesh. Integrated tannins the back palate has richness sweet fruit but there is enough underlying freshness to balance and brighten. Château Croizet-Bages 5eme Cru 86-89 2025-38 Concentrated black fruits the nose has a rich mix of cassis and black cherry the start of the palate has depth of flavour. The tannins are firm but ripe the sweetness on the mid palate backed by fresher flavours the finish though is firm and slightly dry. Château Duhart-Milon-Rothschild 4eme Cru 90-93 2027-43 Fragrant and fresh the nose is bright the start of the palate light. Ripe fruit on the mid palate supple and fleshy with dark chocolate richness but there is freshness fragrant fruit at the back a harmonious mix of red and black fruits the finish stylish and long. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 6
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Echo de Lynch 87-89 2023-30 2 nd wine of Château Lynch-Bages The fruit on the nose is concentrated the palate has a rich mix of black fruits supported by fine integrated tannins. Bright in the middle bramble and bilberry give freshness balance with some richer black fruits a little more depth on the finish. Tasted at Château Ormes de Pez Mercers visit March 2018 92 2025-38 Concentration and depth the nose has rich black fruits the palate firm black cherry. The fruit in the middle has fragrance and freshness directional with richness at the back depth of fruit on the finish Forts de Latour 91-95 2026-40 2 nd wine of Château Latour Brooding richness the nose has smoky black fruits the palate dark chocolate and cocoa beans. The tannins are firm but ripe the fleshy fruit fills out the mid palate depth richness power all this balanced by underling bramble freshness an attractive purity of fruit. Château Grand-Puy-Ducasse 5eme Cru 87-89 2026-38 The fruit on the nose is fresh the start of the palate firm cassis and black cherry. Sweeter in the middle the tannins feel ripe the back palate has depth but the finish is quite tight. Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste 5eme Cru 90-93 2025-41 The nose has a mix of rich black fruits the palate fleshy and supple concentrated black cherry and cassis the tannins firm discreet and integrated. Underlying mineral freshness balances bright at the back the finish is fragrant a hint of spice, stylish and long. Griffons de Baron 92 2025-35 Tasted at the Château Mercers visit March 2018 Cassis, black cherry some bilberry the nose has mix of flavours perfumed spring violets. Fresh fruit in the middle is underpinned by sweetness the back palate has depth suppleness with bilberry freshness on the finish. Château Haut-Bages-Libéral 5eme Cru 87-90 2025-38 The fruit is concentrated depth on the nose and a rich mix of black fruits on the palate. The tannins are firm but feel ripe rich fruit at the back depth the richness balanced by fresh black fruits. Château Haut-Batailley 5eme Cru 89-92 2025-38 Fresh black fruits the nose is bright the palate richer with concentration depth the rich fruit supported by firm tannins. Depth at the back lots of black cherry and cassis balance and length of fruit. Château Haut-Bages-Monpelou 84-87 2025-36 7 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 The nose is closed the start of the palate firm with a mix of fresh black fruits. Ripe cherry gives more depth in the middle but the firmness of the tannins the freshness tends to close down and shorten the finish. Lacoste Borie 87-90 2024-35 2 nd wine of Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste The nose has a fragrant floral charm spring violets and the start of the palate is light and fresh. There is mid sweetness ripe black fruits fleshy and rich with fine tannins supple. It is lighter and fresher at the back the finish bright with bramble and bilberry. Château Lafite 1er Cru 95-98 2026-50 Spring violets the nose is fragrant and fresh the start of the palate bramble and bilberry bright quite light. Rich and ripe in the middle supple and fleshy the rich fruit is supported by fine tannins discreet and integrated. Lighter at the back the fresh fruits give style and elegance. Château Latour 1er Cru 96-98 2028-50 Black fruits the nose has brooding richness the palate depth with black cherry and cassis backed by dark chocolate and liquorice. There is mid freshness balance the tannins integrated discreet but supporting. Depth of the fruit at the back the rich fruit gives way to freshness the finish is remarkably light and elegant. Lions de Batailley 85-87 2024-34 2 nd wine of Château Batailley Violets the nose is fragrant the start of the palate light and fresh. Sweet fruit in the middle supported by firm tannins and although quite full with rich fruit at the back the finish has freshness slightly short. Château Lynch-Bages 5eme Cru 93-95 2025-40 The nose has sweetness depth of flavour the palate ripe black cherry and cassis a complex mix. Bright in the middle the tannins integrated the fresher fruits giving a lighter feel on the back palate. The finish has sweet fruit and good depth. Tasted at Château Ormes de Pez Mercers visit March 2018 96 2026-42 The nose has fresh fruits the start of the palate light and bright with blackberries and bilberries. The mid palate has depth concentrated flavours the tannins firm but fine and although it fills out at the back with a rich mix of black fruits it finishes lighter fresh fruited stylish. Château Lynch-Moussas 5eme Cru 87-90 2026-38 The nose has depth the start of the palate a powerful mix of black fruits. Lighter in the middle quite fresh with bramble and bilberry and although the tannins are firm they feel ripe. At the back there is rich fruit yet it finishes firm and slightly tight. Château Mouton-Rothschild 1er Cru 95-97 2026-44 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 8
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 The nose has a mix of black fruits the start of the palate bright and fresh but there is mid richness concentrated flavours. The tannins are fine discreet well integrated the mid palate supple fleshy with ripe black fruits but there is freshness at the back the finish is long stylish elegant. Pauillac de Latour 88-90 2025-38 3 rd wine of Château Latour Brooding richness the palate has concentrated black fruit black cherry and cassis backed by liquorice. Fresher in the middle the freshness gives a light feel towards the back but it fills out on the finish with a powerful mix of black fruits. Château Pedesclaux 5eme Cru 86-89 2025-38 The nose is firm the start of the palate tight with black cherry and sloe. Firm tannins tend to hold back the fruit and although there is some rich fruit at the back it closes down on the finish. Le Petit Mouton de Mouton-Rothschild 87-90 2025-37 2 nd wine of Château Mouton-Rothschild Sweet ripe fruit the nose has depth the start of the palate lighter with fresh black fruits less concentration. It opens up towards the back with ripe cassis and black cherry and although richer the finish is firm and tight. Château Pibran 88 2024-32 Tasted at the Château Pichon-Baron Mercers visit March 2018 The nose is fragrant floral woodland violets the start of the palate fresh but there is mid sweetness the fruit ripe the tannins fine. Rich fruit at the back the finish is lighter and fresher. Château Pichon-Baron 2eme Cru 95-96 2026-44 Brooding richness the nose has depth of fruit a mix of black fruits ripe black cherry and cassis. The tannins are fine and discreet the back palate is velvet smooth lighter and fresher on the finish stylish elegant. Tasted at the Château Mercers visit March 2018 95 2026-46 The fruit on the nose is concentrated a mix of black fruits the start of the palate has fruity freshness. Rich, ripe and sweet in the middle the layers of flavour give complexity with at the back a balance of sweetness and freshness. Château Pichon-Lalande 2eme Cru 95-97 2026-44 Fragrant and fresh the nose has spring violets the palate a mix of bramble and bilberry. Sweet ripe fruit in the middle rich and ripe velvet smooth and although there is depth at the back the finish has an elegant freshness. Château Pontet-Canet 5eme Cru 94-96 2025-48 9 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Concentrated rich the nose has depth the palate brooding black fruited power the ripe black cherry and cassis backed by dark chocolate. Integrated tannins add to the suppleness but the richness is balanced by herbal bramble a complex mix of flavours. Reserve de la Comtesse 88-90 2022-29 2 nd wine of Château Pichon-Lalande The nose is restrained the start of the palate tight but it opens up in the middle with rich mix of black fruits mid sweetness. Firm tannins tend to hold back the fruit but there is ripe fruit at the back cassis and black cherry and depth of fruit on the finish. Tourelles de Longueville 91 2024-34 Second wine of Château Pichon-Baron Tasted at the Château Mercers visit March 2018 The nose has sweet fruit the palate starts fresher and quite light but it fills out in the middle with ripe blackcurrant and plum. The tannins are firm supporting not aggressive sweet fruit at the back underpinned by a fresh streak the finish is richer with ripe black fruits. Saint-Julien Château Beychevelle 4eme Cru 87-90 2025-37 Black fruits dominate the palate has firm black cherry at the start bright and fresh. Rich and ripe in the middle the black cherry and cassis is supported by fine ripe tannins. Although lighter bright at the back it fills out on the finish fleshy and rich. Château Branaire-Ducru 4eme Cru 89-93 2025-37 The nose has a mix of fragrances the start of the palate is fresh. There is mid sweetness supple rich black fruits the tannins are fine and ripe fresher more of a bramble character at the back with sweetness on the finish. Clos du Marquis 87-90 2025-38 Floral fragrant the nose has spring violets the start of the palate is fresh and bright. Ripe fruit in the middle the sweet fruit supported by fine tannins the fleshy richness on the back palate is underpinned by bramble the finish fragrant and fresh. Croix de Beaucaillou 89-92 2026-39 Rich fruit the nose has depth the palate sweet ripe black fruits. The tannins are discreet polished the mid palate has powerful flavours rich ripe fruit all balanced by freshness at the back the finish lighter and fragrant. Château Ducru-Beaucaillou 2eme Cru 90-95 2026-45 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 10
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Spring violets the nose has a fragrant floral charm the start of the palate has a mix of fresh fruits quite light but there is mid richness depth sweet fruit. The tannins are fine integrated the back palate supple and fleshy the finish stylish lighter with blueberry freshness. Château du Glana 84-86 2023-32 The fruit on the nose is very fresh the start of the palate tight with a bramble and bilberry underpinned by firm tannins. A hint of mid sweetness but the freshness the obvious tannins take over leaving the finish dry and lacking in length. Château Gloria 87-89 2025-38 The nose is tight the start of the palate firm with quite obvious tannins. Richer towards the back sweet black fruits rich black cherry but there is an underlying freshness that gives a lighter firmer feel to the finish. Château Gruaud-Larose 2eme Cru 90-93 2026-42 Under the fragrances the fruit is rich and ripe a mix of black fruits the palate fleshy and supple. The tannins are rounded well integrated rich fruit in the middle but towards the back there is freshness the finish long but quite firm. Château Lagrange 3eme Cru 89-93 2025-39 The fruit on the nose is sweet and ripe the start of the palate has rich fruit depth the tannins firm but ripe. Tighter and fresher in the middle there is a mix of bramble freshness and cassis richness the fruit at the back sweet the finish has good length. Château Lalande Borie 89-91 2025-39 The fruit is ripe the nose has depth the palate a rich mix of black fruits. The mid palate has a balancing freshness bramble under the firmer black cherry and although sweet at the back the finish lighter and fresh. Château Langoa Barton 3eme Cru 90-93 2025-40 Sweetness on the nose the palate has ripe black fruits mid richness. The tannins are fine discreet well integrated the ripeness on the mid palate balance by fresh fruits at the back but it fills out on the finish depth and richness. Tasted at the Château Mercers visit March 2018 93 2025-32 The nose has a smoky charm the start of the palate is fresh and light. Rich ripe fruit in the middle black cherry the tannins firm but ripe and although it is tight on the finish there is richness right at the back Château Léoville Barton 2eme Cru 94-96 2026-40 Rich and ripe on the nose the fruit is sweet the palate has a mix of rich cassis and black cherry. Discreet tannins underpin the mid palate has depth and sweetness the back palate a rich mix of 11 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 fruits. There is enough freshness to balance and although lighter toward the back it finishes with depth of flavour. Tasted at the Château Mercers visit March 2018 94 2027-42 Very cassis driven both nose and palate have lots of bright black fruits. Sweet in the middle the black fruits the black cherry is backed by liquorice and chocolate richness. Fresher at the back graphite streak the finish has depth a rich mix of black fruits. Château Léoville Las Cases 2eme Cru 95-97 2026-40 Fleshy and ripe the nose has sweet fruit depth the palate ripeness and richness. Fine tannins the mid palate is supple rich with depth of flavour the sweet fruit backed by bramble freshness complexity layers of flavour. The back palate is sweet and ripe the finish has depth of fruit. Château Léoville Poyferré 2eme Cru 94-96 2026-40 The black fruits on the nose are sweet the palate fleshy with ripe tannins mid richness. Fresher towards the back bramble and bilberry balance the rich black cherry and chocolate the finish has depth of fruit sweet and ripe. Château Moulin Riche 86-88 2025-37 Fresh and fragrant the nose is bright the palate has a bramble bilberry mix light at the start. Sweet and ripe in the middle there is more depth of flavour some rich fruits at the back with a light bright fresh fruit finish. Le Petit Lion du Marquis de Las Cases 86-88 2025-37 The nose has concentrated fruits the palate starts quite tight with black cherry and sloe. Sweeter in the middle ripe cassis the tannins are firm but fine. Fresh at the back the finish is tight and lacks a bit of length. La Petite Marquise 86-88 2022-30 2 nd wine of Clos du Marquis The nose has fragrant freshness the palate is sweeter with a mix of black fruits. Fine integrated tannins ripe fruit in the middle but there is freshness at the back more of a bramble character. Château Saint-Pierrre 4eme Cru 89-93 2025-40 Firm at the start the nose has a minty freshness the palate slightly tight but it opens up in the middle with a mix of sweet black fruits. Under the richness bramble and bilberry refresh with rich black cherry giving depth on the finish. Château Talbot 4eme Cru 89-92 2025-40 The nose appears quite closed fresh but the fruit on the palate is sweet and ripe. Rich in the middle depth of flavour concentrated black fruits supported by fine tannins. Rich fruit at the back the finish has depth of flavour. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 12
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Margaux Alter Ego de Palmer 87-90 2023-32 2 nd wine of Château Palmer Rich black fruits the nose has depth and sweetness the palate ripe cassis and black cherry all backed by fine tannins. The concentrated richness is underpinned by fresher fruits the back palate lighter the finish firm and slightly short. Château Angludet 88-90 2025-36 The nose is bright the start of the palate has the freshness of brambles and bilberries. There is mid sweetness concentrated black fruits the tannins fine and although rich at the back there is an underlying freshness that gives balance. Le Baron de Brane 85-89 2023-33 The nose has a mix of fresh black fruits the start of the palate sweet with cassis and black cherry. The back palate is lighter fresher but there is sweetness on the finish. Château Brane-Cantenac 2eme Cru 89-93 2025-37 Rich ripe sweet fruit the nose has depth of flavour the palate the sweetness of ripe black cherry and cassis. Fresh fruit in the middle gives balance lifts the flavours with at the back some rich black fruits. Château Cantenac Brown 3eme Cru 87-90 2025-37 The black fruits on the nose are sweet and ripe the start of the palate rich. Fresher more restrained in the middle firm tannins and although richer and sweeter at the back the finish is fresh and bright. Château Le Coteau 84-86 2024-34 The nose has some sweet fruit the palate firm and fresh. Bright the mid palate has bramble and bilberry the tannins are a bit dry the back palate lacks generosity and it finishes with freshness and lacks length. Château Desmirail 3eme Cru 86-89 2025-36 The nose has bramble fresh fruits the start of the palate is light and bright. Sweetness in the middle concentrated black fruits the fruit supported by firm but ripe tannins rich fruit at the back the finish fresher and quite tight. Château Durfort-Vivens 2eme Cru 86-90 2025-36 Black cherry and sloe the nose is fresh the start of the palate firm. Depth and sweetness in the middle ripe fruit quite supple the sweetness underpinned by freshness bright at the back with sweet fruit on the finish. 13 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Château Giscours 3eme Cru 89-91 2025-39 Sweet and ripe on the nose the start of the palate has a rich mix of black fruits. The supple fleshiness in the middle is backed by freshness bright at the back richer more depth on the finish. Château La Gurgue 85-88 2025-36 The nose is bright with fresh fruits the palate richer cassis and black cherry in the middle firm tannins tend to shorten the finish. Château d Issan 3eme Cru 90-94 2025-38 Fresh red and black fruits the nose is bright the start of the palate has rich fruit ripeness. Supple and fleshy in the middle the fruit is supported by fine tannins integrated and discreet with at the back enough freshness to balance the finish is rich and ripe. Château Kirwan 3eme Cru 88-91 2025-38 The nose has freshness and fragrance the start of the palate quite light but it fills out in the middle with ripe cassis and black cherry. Tight at the back the tannins are firm but behind the firmness and freshness there is sweet ripe black fruit. Château Labégorce 86-89 2025-36 The fruit on the nose is bright the start of the palate fresh bramble and bilberry. Richer in the middle there is an underlying sweetness but it finishes lighter firm with fresh fruits. Château Lascombes 2eme Cru 87-90 2025-36 Sweet and ripe the nose has fleshy richness the palate is full of ripe black fruits. Firm tannins in the middle these combined with the freshness tend to hold back the fruit but it does fill out on the back palate and finishes with sweeter fruit. Château Malescot Saint Exupery 3eme Cru 88-91 2025-36 Rich and ripe on the nose the palate has concentration depth of flavour lots of cassis and black cherry. The tannins are firm but integrated the back palate has rich fruit and there is sweetness on the finish. Château Margaux 1er Cru 95-97 2025-40 The nose has a fragrant charm floral with spring violets the palate starts with bramble and some red fruits but there is mid depth the fruit rich and ripe fleshy at the back supple with fine discreet tannins. The sweet fruit on the back palate is backed by freshness the finish has length, style elegance. Château Marquis de Terme 4eme Cru 84-87 2024-33 The nose is bright the palate has a mix of fresh black fruits firm in the middle. The tannins are obvious tight a lack of mid generosity with bramble and bilberry at the back the finish light and fresh. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 14
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Château Monbrison 87-90 2025-35 Ripe fruit the nose has depth the palate richness a mix of sweet black fruits. Fine tannins the mid palate is supple with the ripe fruit balanced by freshness lighter and bright at the back. Château Palmer 3eme Cru 94-96 2025-42 Bright and fresh the nose has bramble and bilberry the start of the palate light but there is mid depth concentrated fruit the tannins discreet integrated. Sweet and ripe at the back the finish is full of rich black fruits. Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux 88-90 2025-37 2 nd wine of Château Margaux Fragrant and fresh the nose has floral charm. The start of the palate light with sweet black fruits in the middle velvet smooth. It is lighter at the back firmer and the finish is quite tight lacking a bit of length. Château Pontac-Lynch 85-87 2024-35 Sweet fruit on the nose the palate is firmer with fresh fruits underpinned by quite hard tannins. There is a richer feel towards the back but the finish is tight and quite short. Château Prieuré-Lichine 4eme Cru 88-90 2024-36 The nose has fragrance fresh black fruits but the palate has sweet fruit ripe cherry, cassis and plum the mid sweetness balanced by the underlying freshness. The fruit at the back is concentrated rich fruits the finish has more of a spicy freshness. Château Rauzan-Gassies 2eme Cru 85-88 2024-36 The nose is not showing a lot of fruit the start of the palate tight the tannins are quite dry. There is sweetness but not enough richness to cope with the rather aggressive tannins and mid freshness. Château Rauzan-Ségla 2eme Cru 90-95 2026-40 Lush the nose has rich fruit the palate depth of flavour velvet smooth supple in the middle. The richness is underpinned by freshness layers of flavour lots of complexity the tannins fine and discreet. There are sweet black fruits at the back yet the finish is precise with great length Ségla 89-92 2025-37 2 nd wine of Château Rauzan-Ségla Upfront sweet the nose has rich ripe fruit the palate is fleshy and supple the tannins fine and discreet. Mid freshness there is a lighter elegant feel to the mid palate but the ripe black fruits are there at the back the finish is rich and supple. Château Siran 85-88 2024-36 15 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Bright black fruits the nose is fresh the start of the palate bright and light. There is a richer feel in the middle a black cherry and cassis mix and although the back palate is tight there is a sweeter feel to the finish. Château du Tertre 5eme Cru 86-90 2025-38 Concentrated black fruits the nose is firm and the start of the palate tight. There is mid sweetness more depth of flavour and although there is sweetness at the back it finishes with firm fresh fruits. Moulis Château Chasse-Spleen 88-90 2025-38 The nose is bright and fresh the palate has a mix of black fruits freshness bramble and bilberry. Sweet in the middle the fruit is ripe the tannins firm but fine the ripe fruit gives richness at the back the finish is lighter and fresher. Château Mauvesin-Barton 85-88 2025-38 The fruit on the nose is fresh the start of the palate tight with bramble and bilberry. There is some rich fruit in the middle cassis and black cherry but firm tight tannins tend to hold back the fruit and shorten the finish. Tasted at the Château Mercers visit March 2018 89 2022-32 The nose has a mix of fresh black fruits the palate light with brambles and bilberries. Richer and sweeter in the middle depth of flavour with the richer black fruits the sweetness balanced by freshness the back palate is firm the finish fragrant. Château Poujeaux 87-90 2025-38 Ripe fruit the nose has richness and depth the palate sweetness with cassis and black cherry backed by chocolate quite generous in the middle. There is enough fresh fruit to balance lighter at the back with sweet fruit on the finish. Listrac Château Clarke 85-88 2025-36 Concentrated black fruit the nose has firm black cherry the palate cassis and black plum. The mid freshness gives a lighter feel the tannins tending to obscure the sweetness and although there is some rich fruit at the back the finish is firm and tight. Château Fonreaud 85-88 2025-36 The nose is light and fresh the palate starts with bramble. Firm in the middle the tannins are tight and although sweeter at the back some ripe cassis the finish is firm and lacks a bit of length. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 16
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Château Fourcas-Dupré 85-87 2025-35 The nose is closed the palate lacks generosity with firm black cherry. There is a richer feel the back but firm tannins tend to hold back the fruit the finish is tight and lacking a bit of length. Château Fourcas-Hosten 85-89 2025-36 The nose is quite open the start of the palate has ripe cassis some black cherry. Sweet fruit in the middle is supported by fine tannins the fruits at the back fresher the finish fragrant and light. Haut-Médoc Château Belgrave 5eme Cru 87-90 2026-36 Concentrated black fruits the nose has lots of cassis the palate has firm black cherry. The tannins are quite tight mid structure yet there is depth a powerful mix of black fruits backed by toasty oak. There is enough fruit to come through when the tannins have integrated. Château Cambon La Pelouse 86-89 2026-36 The nose is bright and fresh the palate sweeter with rich black fruits depth in the middle the tannins ripe and integrated. Fresh fruits at the back give a lighter feel but it fills out on the finish with ripe black cherry. Château Cantemerle 5eme Cru 88-91 2026-36 Rich fruit on the nose the palate has depth of flavour a mix of black fruits. The ripe sweet fruit is underpinned by freshness bright vibrant slightly lighter at the back the finish though has depth rich concentrated fruit. Château Cissac 87-89 2025-34 The nose has sweet fruit the start of the palate a mix of ripe cassia and firmer black cherry. The tannins are well integrated the sweetness richness of the black fruits balanced by underlying freshness with some ripe fruit giving depth and sweetness at the back. Château Haut-Madrac 85-88 2024-34 The mix of black fruits feels ripe the nose has depth the palate richness in the middle. The tannins are firm but feel ripe and there is some sweet fruit showing on the finish. Château La Lagune 3eme Cru 89-92 2025-35 The black fruits on the nose are sweet the start of the palate has rich fruit mid depth the tannins fine and well integrated. Black cherry richness is underpinned by fresh black fruits balance with sweet rich fruit giving depth on the finish. Château Lestage Simon 84-86 2023-31 17 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Bright and fresh on the nose the palate is light and bright but it lacks mid richness and sweetness. Fresh fruit at the back the finish is firm and lacking in length. Château Liversan 85-88 2024-34 Floral fragrant the nose has spring violets the palate a bramble and bilberry mix. Sweet and ripe in the middle the cassis and black cherry mix is underpinned by tannins firmer at the back with sweet fruit showing on the finish. Château Sénéjac 85-88 2024-34 The mix of fruits on the nose is fresh and bright the start of the palate light. There is mid sweetness more depth at the back the richness backed by freshness the finish is a bit tight. Château Sociando-Mallet 86-89 2025-36 The nose is fresh and firm and the start of the palate bright. Mid sweetness the fruit feels ripe firmer and fresher at the back the finish is quite tight. Médoc Chapelle de Potensac 85-87 2022-28 2 nd wine of Château Potensac Fragrant the nose is light the palate starts with bramble freshness sweeter in the middle easy with ripe fruit not that complex with a bright quite fresh finish. Goulée by Cos d Estournel 86-88 2024-36 The nose has a mix of black fruit a hint of spice the start of the palate sweet with ripe fruit. Firm in the middle the richness underpinned by freshness the back palate tight and the finish has a touch of oak spice. Château Lacombe Noaillac 85-87 2024-33 Fragrant and fresh the nose is light the start of the palate has bramble and bilberry. Sweeter in the middle richer the ripe fruit supported by firm but ripe tannins and although there is depth at the back the finish is fresh and firm. Château Patache d Aux 85-88 2024-33 Sweet and ripe on the nose the palate has rich black fruits sweet at the start. Bramble and bilberry give mid freshness lighter at the back with black cherry giving depth and richness on the finish. Château Potensac 88-90 2024-34 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 18
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 The nose has fragrance spring violets the start of the palate is light and bright but it fills out in the middle with sweet ripe black fruits. The tannins are fine and integrated with the richness balanced by freshness the finish has good depth and sweetness. Château La Tour de By 84-87 2023-34 Fresh fruits the nose is bright but light the start of the palate firm with a bramble and bilberry mix. Tannic structure tends to dominate and slightly dry and although there is sweet fruit at the back the finish lacks length. Château La Tour Saint Bonnet 83-86 2023-33 Taught the nose is firm the palate lacks sweetness and fruit richness. Firm tannins hold back fruits expression the back palate fresh and the finish lacking richness and length. Château Valière 83-85 2023-31 The nose is light the palate fresh and firm with black fruits and red fruits. There is a hint of mid sweetness but the tannins overtake and it dries towards the back. Pessac-Léognan Rouge Château Bouscquet 86-88 2024-36 Fresh fruits the nose is light but fragrant the start of the palate has a mix of fresh black fruits. There is mid sweetens more depth of flavour and although light at the back rich fruit shows on the finish. Château Brown 86-89 2024-36 Rich black fruits the nose has depth the palate black cherry and cassis the fruit supported by fine tannins. Lighter at the back fresh fruits tend to dominate and although the finish is quite tight there is some sweet fruit to show. Château Carbonnieux 87-89 2024-36 The nose is firm and fresh the start of the palate tight the fruit supported by firm tannins. There is some sweet fruit at the back ripe cassis more depth of flavour but it finishes with freshness and firmness. Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion 89-92 2025-38 The nose is tight the palate has a mix of fresh fruits very black fruit in character. There is mid structure but the fruit is sweet and ripe the tannins, though firm, are integrated with sweet fruit at the back the finish is lighter with bramble gravelly freshness. La Chapelle de la Mission 89-93 2023-35 2 nd wine of Château La Mission Haut-Brion 19 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 The mix of black fruits on the nose is sweet but the palate starts with fresh bilberry. The tannins are fine integrated the mid and back palate have concentration rich fruit but it finishes lighter fragrant fresh. Domaine de Chevalier 91-95 2025-42 The nose has a mix of fragrances the palate starts with some fresh fruits but the fruit in the middle is rich and sweet supple the tannins ripe but discreet. Rich at the back depth fleshy but there is balance an underlying freshness the finish is stylish and long. Château Civrac Lagrange 84-86 2023-33 There is not a lot of fruit on the nose the start of the palate tight with fresh bramble and bilberry. Richer fruit towards the back there is some sweetness but the tannins and the fresh fruit take over the finish is tight and lacking in length. Clarence Haut-Brion 90-93 2025-38 The fruit is concentrated rich the nose has depth and the palate a powerful mix of black fruits. Fresh fruit in the middle lightens balances the richness and brings out the fragrances and although quite firm at the back there is sweet fruit on the finish. Château Fieuzal 85-88 2025-37 The nose is firm the start of the palate lacks a bit of richness but there is mid sweetness with ripe cassis some black cherry. The sweet fruit is underpinned by fresher black fruits the back palate quite light and the finish is tight. Château Haut-Bailly 92-95 2025-42 Brooding black fruits the nose has the richness of ripe fruit the palate is sweet with depth of flavour in the middle. Discreet integrated tannins support with the rich black cherry and cassis at the backed underpinned by bramble freshness. Château Haut-Brion 1er Cru 95-98 2028-48 Brooding richness the nose has depth the palate has concentrated black fruits. Sweet in the middle the tannins are fine and integrated supple fleshy rich fruit. At the back fresher fruit gives a lighter feel fragrant stylish but there is sweetness rich fruit on the finish. Château Larrivet Haut-Brion 86-89 2025-37 Fresh black fruits the nose is light and bright the start of the palate firm. Richer and sweeter in the middle ripe cassis is backed by black cherry and although light and firm at the back there is more concentration and depth on the finish. Château Latour-Martillac 86-88 2024-36 Ripe fruit on the nose the start of the palate has sweet black fruits fair depth in the middle. There is underlying freshness lighter at the back and firm on the finish. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 20
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 Château Malartic-Lagravière 87-90 2025-39 The nose is bright with fresh black fruits and the start of the palate light. More depth and richness in the middle a concentrated mix of black fruits the tannins firm giving structure but feel ripe the finish has firm black cherry. Château La Mission Haut-Brion 95-98 2025-43 Concentrated black fruits the nose has depth the palate a rich mix of cassis and black cherry mid richness the sweet fruit backed by fine tannins. Rich and ripe at the back supple and fleshy but there is balance an underlying freshness the finish has elegance and length. Château Olivier 85-87 2024-37 The nose is fresh the palate tight with the mix of black fruits underpinned by firm tannins. There is mid sweetness but the fresher black fruits dominate the back palate and there is a lack of depth and sweetness. Château Pape Clement 87-90 2025-38 Sweet ripe fruit the nose has depth the palate fleshy black fruits mid richness. Lighter at the back there is an underlying freshness the finish is quite tight and lacking a bit of length. Château Picque Caillou 87-89 2025-37 The nose is bright with black and red fruits the start of the palate light. Richer and sweeter in the middle there is more generosity with ripe black fruits on the finish. Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte 90-94 2026-40 Concentrated rich fruit the palate has sweet ripe cassis and black cherry dark chocolate in the middle depth of flavour. Fresher at the back the tannins fine and integrated the finish has depth of flavour sweet fruit. Pessac-Léognan Blanc Le Clarte Haut-Brion 90-92 2018-24 Sémillon 76.3% Sauvignon Blanc 23.7% The nose is light fresh with fragrant white flowers herbal the start of the palate has citrus crispness. A hint of mid sweetness some tropical fruits with lime and lemon giving a racy freshness to the finish. Domaine de Chevalier 92-95 2018-26 The nose is light fragrant floral discreet the palate starts with citrus firmness bright but there is mid richness white peach and pear. The back palate has a citrus mix the finish light, fresh and very long. 21 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Château Fieuzal Blanc 87-89 2017-24 The nose is quite tight the palate firm with lots of citrus. Hints of tropical fruits in the middle sweet fruit towards the back the finish though firm with mineral crispness. Château Haut-Brion Blanc 91-94 2018-26 Sauvignon Blanc 70.5% Sémillon 29.5% Mineral and citrus the nose is floral and fragrant the start of the palate bright and fresh. Ripe fruit in the middle white peach, tropical fruits, a hint of pear the richness underpinned by mineral and lime the finish bright and long. Château La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc 90-93 2018-26 Sauvignon 62.7% 37.3% Semillon The nose has a racy freshness the start of the palate citrusy spicy with white pepper, white flowers a hint of sage. Ripe fruit in the middle white peach some tropical fruits the back palate leaner fresh the finish has length and lingering fruit. Château Pape Clement Blanc 85-88 2018-22 The nose is sweet the palate has breadth of flavour a richness without the underlying freshness. The back palate is soft rich fleshy and lacks steely freshness a lack of balance. Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte Blanc 90-92 2028-26 Sauvignon Blanc 90% Semillon 5% Sauvignon Gris 5% Mineral freshness the nose is bright the start of the palate lean spicy white pepper with underlying mineral. Richer in the middle ripe grapefruit fleshy but the mineral and citrus refresh the finish is racy and long. Graves Rouge Château de Chantegrive 84-87 2024-34 Fragrant and fresh the nose is light the palate has a bramble bilberry mix. It is sweeter in the middle fresher at the back the finish light and bright. Château Ferrande 84-88 2024-35 The fruit is ripe the nose has rich black fruits and the palate depth of flavour. Brighter and fresher at the back but there is sweet fruit showing on the finish. Château Rahoul 86-89 2024-34 The nose has fresh fruits the start of the palate light with bramble and bilberry. Richer more depth in the middle but the tannins are firm the finish tight and lacking a bit of length. Vieux Château Gaubert 84-88 2023-33 www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 22
BORDEAUX 2016 October 11, 2012 The nose is tight and fresh the start of the palate firm. Richer in the middle but the freshness and the tannins hold back the fruit and shorten the finish. Château Villa Bel-Air 86-89 2024-35 The nose has floral fragrances violets the start of the palate fresh but there is more concentrated fruit in the middle rich ripe cassis and black cherry. It feels lighter at the back an underlying freshness but there is rich fruit on the finish. Graves Blanc Château Villa Bel-Air 86-89 2018-22 Light fresh and fragrant the nose has citrusy freshness the start of the palate bright with a lime and lemon mix. Ripe grapefruit in the middle more depth of fruit all balanced by mineral and citrus at the back the finish is light and crisp. Sauternes Château Bastor-Lamontagne 85-88 2020-26 The nose has a light floral charm the palate tropical fruits light and fresh at the start. It is sweeter in the middle apricots backed by ripe yellow peach but the back palate is fresh and the finish lacks sweetness and depth. Château de Fargues 89-92 2023-36 Sweet fruit on the nose the palate has richness candied peel and ripe apricot fleshy and supple. The sweetness is balanced by a hint of citrus mid freshness fragrant at the back with orange marmalade and ripe peach giving a succulent richness on the finish. Château Guiraud 1er Cru 92-94 2025-40 The nose has a mix of flavours rich and ripe yet fragrant the palate has depth with apricots and candied orange peel fleshy on the mid palate. Fresh at the back fragrant bright slightly gingery and salty but it fills out on the finish with rich ripe fruit Clos Haut-Peyraguey 1er Cru 89-92 2025-37 The nose has a rich mix of fruits the palate has fleshy richness at the start lighter with more tropical fruits in the middle. The ripe fruit the candied peel orange marmalade gives depth at the back and there is sweetness flesh on the finish. Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey 1er Cru 89-91 2021-28 The nose has a fragrant mix of fruits the start of the palate tropical fruits quite complex. Ripe and fleshy in the middle orange peel and yellow peach the sweetness filling out the back palate. There is underlying freshness that gives a lighter bright feel to the finish. Château Lamothe-Guignard 2eme Cru 88-91 2022-29 23 Master of Wine: Derek Smedley Master of Wine: Derek Smedley
October 11, 2012 BORDEAUX 2016 Rich and ripe the nose has depth the start of the palate apricot and fleshy peach. It is lighter in the middle citrus the fresh fruit mix backed by ripe fruit the finish full and fleshy. Château de Malle 2eme Cru 86-89 2021-28 The nose is sweet the start of the palate has a rich mix of fruits apricots and yellow peaches. Firmer at the back light there is an underlying citric freshness and the finish lacks concentration. Château de Rayne-Vigneau 1er Cu 88-90 2021-28 Depth of fruit the nose is sweet the palate has the richness of ripe apricots. The fleshy suppleness in the middle is underpinned by citrus fresher at the back but it finishes sweet, rich and ripe fruited. Château Sigalas-Rabaud 1er Cru 87-90 2021-29 Herbal and spicy the nose has lots of different flavours fragrances. The fruit on the mid palate is sweet and ripe with fleshy apricots but it is lighter and fresher at the back the finish just lacking a bit of concentration. Château Suduiraut 1er Cru 93-95 2024-40 Ripe apricots the nose is sweet the palate luscious with fleshy yellow peach, candied peel and orange marmalade. There is balance an underlying freshness hints of spice the finish is rich and ripe with flavours that linger. Château La Tour Blanche 1er Cru 92-94 2024-40 There is an exotic floral quality about the nose the palate has a balance of rich ripe fruit and freshness complexity. Fresh at the back hints of peppery botrytis the finish has sweet fruit richness depth. Château Yquem 1er Cru Superieur 94-96 2025-48 The nose has fragrance white peaches the palate is rich with ripe fruit a lovely complex mix. Sweet in the middle dried fruits and candied peel sumptuous the fleshy richness underpinned by citrus lighter at the back with lingering fragrances on the finish. Barsac Château Broustet 2eme Cru 88-90 2022-29 The fruit on the nose has a fragrant floral charm the start of the palate has tropical fruits sweet and ripe. Depth and richness in the middle the mix of tropical fruits and yellow peach are fleshy the back has depth the finish slightly lighter fragrant and long. Château Coutet 1er Cru 88-92 2025-38 The nose is quite light the palate richer with apricot and white peach. The sweet fruit is backed by freshness lighter at the back the finish lacks a bit of complexity, depth and richness. www.dereksmedleymw.co.uk Master of Wine: Derek Smedley 24