Clos Cantenac 2016 is made from 100% wonderfully ripe Merlot from our older vines planted in three separate blocks and picked in absolutely perfect early morning conditions over 5 days in late September and early October.

The wine shows a deep dense velvety black in colour with a vibrant and hugely appealing structure and a nose of fine rich ripe fruits with further hints of black cherry and cassis enhanced by dark fruited fragrances and a touch of sweet spice. The elegance and finesse of the wine is further supported by a complex register of lush fresh berries and brambly like flavours coffee beans mocha and subtle soft grilled new oak notes.

On the palate it displays a luscious and concentrated fine fruit attack and a succulent crunchy florality including waves of dark plums and chocolate that spreads with generous exaggeration right across the mouth with an impressive intensity of character leading to a sleek graphite like finish. It is a deliciously confident and opulent wine of classic structure but with a touch of mystique that promises well for the future.

Overall the vintage has produced a very fine and concentrated wine that will continue to develop for many years to come and that will benefit hugely from careful cellaring.