| Brand | Chateau Cantemerle |
| Appellation | Haut Medoc, Bordeaux, France |
| Varietal | Cabernets, Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Body | Medium |
| Taste | fruity, vanilla |
| Alcohol | 13.5% |
Product details
Cantemerle, a 5th growth from Haut-Médoc, is one of the rare crus-classés situated just beyond the borders of AOC Margaux, and it drinks much like its Margaux counterparts. With a Cabernet-based profile that’s softer than wines from Pauillac or Saint-Estèphe, Cantemerle develops an expressive perfume and a slightly ‘sauvage’ quality with age. Despite its refined complexity, it remains undervalued in the market due to its non-Margaux classification, making it a hidden gem for those in the know. Its softer and more approachable style, even among other cru classé peers, adds to its allure as an “insider’s” wine.
Reflecting its unique soil and microclimate, Cantemerle boasts a brilliant color, powerful bouquet, and a soft yet lively flavor profile. Its refined fruitiness and hints of vanilla from well-integrated oak make it appealing to modern wine drinkers who favor fresh tannins and early drinkability. Yet, it also ages remarkably well, with older vintages showcasing unparalleled elegance and impeccable class. Cantemerle is a rare find in the wine world, capable of not only aging gracefully but also improving over several decades, making it a versatile choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.
