Château Haut Chaigneau 2016

Château Haut Chaigneau is a family-owned estate in the Lalande-de-Pomerol appellation on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, neighbouring the famed clay and gravel soils of Pomerol proper. The property combines traditional winemaking with thoughtful vineyard management, tending Merlot-dominated vines planted on well-drained gravel and clay, and producing approachable, terroir-driven Bordeaux with ripe fruit and balanced structure. Deep ruby with garnet hues. The 2016 vintage shows mature, expressive notes of black cherry, plum and cassis with hints of cedar, wild herbs and tobacco. On the palate it is rich yet composed, offering dark fruit concentration framed by smooth, integrated tannins and a touch of graphite minerality. Balanced acidity gives freshness, while secondary notes of leather, spice and dried berry carry through a long, refined finish. A terrific example of a ripe, developed Right Bank Bordeaux; great now or over the next few years with lamb, duck or mushroom dishes.