The assemblage in this vintage is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot, and the grand vin took 45% of the harvest. The élevage was in 50% new oak barrels. I find a rather exciting nose here, filled with the scents of grilled blackcurrants, black olive and black beans, with twists of tobacco, toast and praline coming from the oak barrels. The palate is full, with a medium- to full-bodied presence, carrying attractive and elegantly grained spicy black fruits, perfumed with rose petals, black bean and dried black olives. This is all underpinned by a sinewy texture and a filigree elegance, as well as a strong seam of ripe, sinewy and tightly grained tannins. A very fresh style, confident and poised, with a lovely grip from the finessed tannins, a great balance and vivacity, and an engaging length. This is a real success for this château.

The brightness and precision already comes through on the nose with floral, blackcurrant character. Full-bodied and very tight and creamy with polished tannins that last for minutes. Warm and intense. Needs four to five years to show all it has, yet already a beauty.

The 2016 d'Issan is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot. Deep garnet colored with a touch of purple, it roars out with powerful scents of creme de cassis, blackberry pie, and stewed plums with hints of mocha, violets, and licorice. The medium-bodied palate delivers a solid structure of firm, grainy tannins and seamless acidity to support the taut, muscular black fruit, finishing on a lingering aniseed note. (LPB)