In great vintages like 2016 where the fruit quality is exceptional, the second wines from top Châteaux are often the best buys and can even compete with the Grand Vin from lesser vintages. I have picked 3 of my favourites from the left bank, including Saint-Estèphe de Calon Ségur, which is actually the 3rd wine of Chateau Calon Segur... although we (Andrew and I) genuinely couldn't believe it wasn't the 2nd wine when we tasted in Bordeaux last year!
Saint-Estèphe de Calon Ségur 2016
Third wine of Château Calon Ségur in Saint-Estèphe. It is created from the estates younger vines (Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot), resulting in a fruit-forward, ripe and approachable wine.
"Wow. Vibrant nose of blackcurrant and cassis with underlying hints of liqourice. Rich and round on the palate with velvety smooth, ripe tannins and juicy texture that intermingle with blackcurrant and cassis puree, integrated toasted oak and black pepper spice. I couldn't believe it wasn't the 2nd wine when I tasted in Bordeaux last year."
BUY NOW
Sarget de Gruaud Larose 2016
Second wine of Château Gruaud Larose in Saint-Julien. A blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot and the remainder divided between Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, that show all the hallmarks of the house style.
"Freshness and brightness with just a hint of herb to the currant and floral undertones. Medium body, fine tannins and a flavorful finish." 90/100 points. James Suckling.
"There is plenty of fruit on the nose: black cherries, red plum and a touch of violet, the modest level of new oak allowing the fruit to shine. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannin, very pure fruit and a caressing texture. This Deuxième Vin can sometimes be a little disappointing, but not this year. It's just a delicious wine that will give a decades worth of drinking pleasure." 88-90/100 points. Neal Martin.
BUY NOW
La Réserve de Léoville Barton 2016
Second wine of Château Léoville Barton in Saint-Julien. An earlier-drinking version of the Grand Vin, that offers excellent value for money.
"A very pretty second wine. Stylistically, the Reserve is a bit riper and more overt than readers are likely to expect from Léoville Barton, but that is not a bad thing for a wine that is meant to be enjoyed on the young side. Succulent dark cherry, plum, chocolate, leather and spice are all generous in this racy Saint-Julien." 90/100 points. Antonio Galloni.
"The 2016 La Réserve de Léoville Barton has a well-defined bouquet of crisp red fruit (strawberry and cranberry), plus touches of crushed stone tucked underneath. The medium-bodied palate offers light tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Quite elegant in style, with a precise finish. Classic Claret – no more, no less." 89/100 points. Neal Martin.
BUY NOW
Free delivery available to UK mainland addresses on orders over the value of £200 - standard delivery is charged at £9.95 if order totals below.
