La Croix de Beaucaillou 2016

"The 2016 La Croix de Beaucaillou is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot that is matured in 60% new oak for 12 months and the remainder in one-year-old barrels. It has quite a rich and opulent bouquet, quite glossy with scents of kirsch, crushed strawberry, crème de cassis and a touch of vanilla. The palate is medium-bodied with quite sumptuous tannin counterbalance but a keen thread of acidity (the pH is 3.65). There is great tension here, immense purity with quite a structured, almost flinty finish that is classic in style. Though it is a Deuxième Vin, it deserves several years in bottle." - Neal Martin, The Wine Advocate, Rating: 92-94, Drink: 2022-2045

''While the top wine gets all the attention, the second wine 2016 La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou is well worth seeking out and unquestionably shows some of the class and purity of the grand vin. A more forward, fleshy wine with oodles of black raspberries, cassis, and floral hints, it’s a total charmer with its fine, supple tannins and great finish. A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, aged 12 months in 60% new barrels, drink it any time over the coming 15-20 years.'' Jeb Dunnuck, Bordeaux 2016: Firing On All Cylinders (2/28/2019) Ratings: 93 Drink: 2019-2039

''Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 La Croix de Beaucaillou gives up aromas of cassis, earth, black plums, black cherries and mulberries with wafts of menthol, cigars and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is lively and earthy with firm, grainy tannins, finishing long and mineral-laced.'' Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate (11/30/2018) Ratings: 92 Drink: 2020-2035