2016 & 2019 Cantemerle, Haut-Médoc

“Plenty of menthol, blackberry and blackcurrant aromas in this elegant, medium-weight Haut-Médoc that’s got as much freshness as ripeness and a long, clean, mineral and herbal finish. An incredibly food-flexible wine!” (02/2019)

“Well-integrated tannins give this wine a rich, velvet character that is underlined by the blackberry fruits. The aftertaste is dense, concentrated and rich. (RV)” (04/2019)

“This beautiful château is one of the first major properties encountered heading north on the Route des Châteaux. Situated in a woodland setting, this 94-hectare estate is situated on sand and gravel soils, and produces fresh, early-drinking and great value wines. Medium-bodied with some graphite, mineral notes adding to the ripe blackberry fruit. 12 months ageing in oak, 40% new. (AW)” (11/2021)

“The 2016 Cantemerle has developed beautifully with élevage. Pliant, silky and exceptionally balanced, the 2016 has the pedigree and complexity to allow for a number of years of very fine drinking. Moreover, the 2016 delivers serious flavor intensity without being at all heavy. Smoke, iron and cedar add character to a Haut-Médoc that has a lot to offer. (AG)” (01/2019)

“Starts with a violet note but turns darker quickly, with dark currant and black cherry preserve flavors forming the core. Nice fresh tobacco and iron details carry the mouthwatering finish. Not big, but focused and tasty. (JM)” (03/2019)

“A red with lots of currant, blackberry, fresh-herb and tobacco character. Hint of mushroom, too. It’s full and layered with polished, chewy tannins and a bright and fresh finish. Very long and focused. Give it time to come together. Very classic character here.” (02/2022)

“This grand classed growth has produced a richly structured wine that is balanced by ripe black fruits. It shows spice from the touch of Petit Verdot in the blend, as well as fine acidity and freshness that give it poise and a vibrant finish. (RV)” (06/2020)

“Green pepper and herbaceous notes on the nose with minty eucalyptus alongside ripe cherry and blackcurrant aromas - so classic. A lovely mouthfeel here, smooth, well defined and preise. Quite direct, serious and darkly fruited - such a concentrated core - but with smooth tannins, a soft sweetness and freshness that lifts the overall frame. Balanced with succulence. Makes a lasting impact and impression. A great value pick. (GH)” (01/2022)

“The 2019 Cantemerle is fabulous. Deep, inky and super expressive, Cantemerle is a real standout in 2019. Dark red and purplish berry fruit, grilled herbs, rose petal, spice, sweet pipe tobacco and mint are some of the many notes that develop here with a bit of coaxing. More than anything else, it is the wine's extraordinary balance and sense of harmony that stand out here. Don't miss this! (AG)” (06/2020)

“An incredibly consistent estate that always delivers a quality wine, the 2019 Château Cantemerle checks in as 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Classic Médoc notes of red and black currants, cedar pencil, sappy herbs, and tobacco give way to a medium-bodied 2019 with terrific balance, ripe, polished tannins, good acidity, and outstanding length. This terrific wine will benefit from just short-term cellaring and keep for 15+ in cold cellars.” (04/2022)

“Very direct in feel, offering plum and cherry puree notes gilded with violet and anise hints. Shows a graphite accent on the finish, which adds depth as the fruit blossoms around it. Solid.” (03/2022)