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, with a depth, character, and refinement that make them a top choice. I’ve selected a 5-year-old vintage, as Haut-Médoc wines—often rich in tannins and concentrated fruit—require a few years of aging to mellow. Aromas of black fruit, tobacco, and spicy cedar unfold slowly and linger for a long time, offering excellent length 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 sure bet. The wines here have shown unfailing consistency over the past few vintages. A distinctive feature is that the vineyard’s blend is heavily dominated by Petit Verdot, a grape variety that also gives rise to a unique cuvée. Offering excellent value for the price, the wines produced here are a worthy addition to 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 qualities. It is robust and well-structured, 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, but there’s no need to rush.

About the estate:

In recent years, this small estate in the southern Médoc has established itself as a sure bet. The wines here have shown unfailing consistency over the past few vintages. A distinctive feature is that the vineyard’s blend is heavily dominated by Petit Verdot, a grape variety that also gives rise to a unique cuvée. Offering excellent value for the price, the wines produced here are a worthy addition to any wine lover’s collection.

James Suckling

About the wine:

With its aroma and subtle richness, it tastes like a very good Margaux. This should come as no surprise, since the Belle-Vue vineyards are located immediately south of that appellation. Long and elegant finish. 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 the price. With a deep color and a powerful bouquet of crème de cassis, 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, 30% of which was aged in new French oak barrels. It’s almost too good to be true—you’ll want to snap it up right away! 2019–2034

Le Figaro vins

About the wine:

Aroma of fresh red berries, vanilla, and cherry. Full-bodied, crisp, and briny on the palate, with fruity notes and round, supple tannins. A lovely finish.