Château Pédesclaux 2016

Appellation: Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

Classification: Fifth Grand Cru Classé 1855

Ownership: Descazes family

Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

Vintage: 2016

Origin and background

The 2016 vintage in Pauillac benefited from a favourable climate, with a hot, dry summer followed by a mild autumn, allowing optimum ripening. Château Pédesclaux, situated on gravelly soils typical of Pauillac, produces a classic, well-balanced wine combining power, finesse and elegance.

Tasting

Colour: Deep, intense red with purplish highlights.

Nose: Complex and fresh. Aromas of ripe black fruit (blackcurrant, blackberry), red fruit (cherry), sweet spices (pepper, liquorice), floral notes (violet) and woody nuances (cedar, vanilla).

Palate: Clean, supple attack. Tannins are present but velvety, offering a fine structure. Well-balanced mid-palate, with expressive fruit and refreshing acidity. Long, harmonious finish, with spicy and slightly mineral notes.

Review

- Wine Advocate: 91/100

- Vinous: 90/100

- James Suckling: 91/100

Suggested pairings

Pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted red meats (rib steak, fillet of beef), roast lamb, roast poultry (guinea fowl, duck) and savoury stews (daube, civet). It also goes well with mature hard or blue-veined cheeses.