Château Le Boscq

The 2016 Le Boscq, owned by Vignobles Dourthe, is a blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot and was picked 29 September until 20 October. This represents a move towards Cabernet Sauvignon and away from Merlot in the final blend. It has a very ripe, opulent bouquet that does not quite convey its terroir with the same aplomb as say, the Phelan-Ségur. It translates more of the winemaking than the terroir. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red fruit, crisp acidity and quite an elegant finish. It is in the second half of this wine that the quality of the vintage shows through. Hopefully the aromatics will gain more composure and it will live up to the finish it currently displays. One to watch.

Deep and brooding with dense, layered fruit and an abundance of finely honed tannin. Builds on the palate. Long, persistent finish. Substantial wine but everything in balance. One for the cellar.

Wonderful aromas of crushed, fresh flowers and berries. Fantastic. Full body and round, velvety tannins. Deep and glorious. This delivers way above its price level. A blend of 48 per cent cabernet sauvignon, 47 per cent merlot and five per cent petit verdot.