Chateau Franc le Maine, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru AOP 2016 (1x75cl)

Château Franc le Maine represents a quintessential expression of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, an appellation celebrated for its Merlot-dominant blends on Bordeaux's Right Bank. The estate's terroir, characterised by clay-limestone soils, contributes to wines of significant structure and aromatic complexity. The 2016 vintage is widely lauded across Bordeaux, particularly for the Right Bank, yielding wines with excellent concentration, freshness, and refined tannins. This bottling from Château Franc le Maine exemplifies the vintage's success, crafted for both immediate enjoyment and considerable cellaring potential, reflecting meticulous vineyard management and traditional winemaking practices.

Tasting notes

The 2016 Château Franc le Maine presents a deep ruby hue. On the nose, an intricate bouquet unfolds with ripe black cherry, plum, and cassis, interwoven with nuances of cedar, tobacco leaf, and a subtle hint of graphite. The palate is full-bodied and impeccably balanced, showcasing a core of dark fruit complemented by fine-grained tannins and a vibrant acidity that provides excellent freshness. Layers of liquorice, dark chocolate, and an earthy minerality emerge on the mid-palate, leading to a persistent and elegant finish. This wine demonstrates remarkable poise and the classic structure indicative of a well-crafted Saint-Émilion Grand Cru from a superior vintage.