Château Belle-Vue Haut-Médoc 2016 - Cru Bourgeois

Decanter

About the wine:

Classified as a Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel in 2020 and recently renamed, this estate produces wines of impressive quality, depth, personality, and refinement that make them a top choice. I have selected a 5-year-old vintage, as Haut-Médoc wines, often rich in tannins and concentrated fruit, require a few years of aging to soften. Aromas of black fruit, tobacco, and spicy cedar unfold slowly and linger for a long time, offering excellent persistence and a juicy, flavorful finish. There is also a high proportion of Petit Verdot (10 to 20% in most vintages), which adds color and a hint of pepper on the finish. 2021–2034

Guide Hachette des vins

About the estate:

In recent years, this small estate in the southern Médoc has established itself as a reliable choice. The wines here have shown unfailing consistency over the past few vintages. A distinctive feature is the vineyard’s heavy reliance on Petit Verdot, a grape variety that also gives rise to a unique cuvée. Offering excellent value for money, the wines produced here are a must-have for any wine lover’s collection.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the estate:

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the wine:

The 2016 vintage confirms its promising potential. It is robust and full-bodied, with a juicy mid-palate and well-integrated tannins. A solid wine, yet already approachable, that reveals itself with depth. It’s ready to drink now, though there’s no rush.

About the estate:

In recent years, this small estate in the southern Médoc has established itself as a reliable choice. The wines here have shown unfailing consistency over the past few vintages. A distinctive feature is the vineyard’s heavy reliance on Petit Verdot, a grape variety that also gives rise to a unique cuvée. Offering excellent value for money, the wines produced here are a must-have for any wine lover’s collection.

James Suckling

About the wine:

With its aromatic profile and subtle richness, it tastes like a top-quality Margaux. This should come as no surprise, as the Belle-Vue vineyards are located just south of that appellation. The finish is long and elegant. A blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 20% Petit Verdot. Ready to drink now or for aging.

Jeb Dunnuck

About the wine:

The 2016 Château Belle-Vue is an exceptional Haut-Médoc offering incredible value for money. With a deep color and a powerful bouquet of blackcurrant, black cherries, aromatic herbs, and earthy notes, this medium- to full-bodied wine features ultra-fine tannins and fabulous balance. A blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 20% Petit Verdot, aged 30% in new French oak barrels. It’s almost too good to be true—you’ll want to get your hands on it right away! 2019–2034

Le Figaro vins

About the wine:

The nose offers notes of fresh red berries, vanilla, and cherry. On the palate, it is full-bodied, crisp, and briny, with a fruity character and round, supple tannins. A lovely finish.