2016 Ch Bernadotte Cru Bourgeois, Haut-Medoc

This has aromas of boysenberries and dark berries with a wealth of bracken and gently tarry aromas, too. The palate has a fresh, fleshy and quite concentrated feel with fine tannins that hold the finish long. A blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon and petit verdot. Try from 2023.

93 points James Suckling

With firm, cedary oak tannins this has clearly gone the rounds with a barrel, but has some lovely juicy fruit to balance it out. An enjoyable wine that steals up on you and makes you smile. Owned by Hong Kong company King Power Group, this was formerly part of the Louis Roederer stable and now has Hubert de Bouard consulting.Drinking Window 2024 - 2035

92 points Jane Anson decanter.com

Nestled in the heart of the Haut Médoc, Château Bernadotte has quietly earned a reputation as one of Bordeaux's most dependable Cru Bourgeois estates. Named after the family of French Marshal Jean Baptiste Bernadotte, who later became King Charles XIV John of Sweden, the estate combines a rich history with meticulous vineyard management to produce classically styled Bordeaux that consistently delivers outstanding value.

The exceptional 2016 vintage is regarded as one of the finest in recent Bordeaux history, producing wines of remarkable purity, balance and structure. The estate's gravel and clay soils allowed Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to ripen slowly and evenly, resulting in fruit of excellent concentration while preserving freshness and elegance. Careful oak maturation has added complexity without overshadowing the wine's vibrant fruit.

Deep garnet with youthful ruby highlights, the bouquet opens with aromas of cassis, blackberry and black cherry layered with cedar, graphite and dried herbs. As the wine evolves, notes of tobacco leaf, pencil shavings and subtle spice emerge, adding depth and classic Médoc character. The palate is medium to full bodied, combining ripe black fruits with polished tannins, lively acidity and a refined mineral thread. Smooth, balanced and quietly sophisticated, the finish lingers with savoury spice, cedar and impressive persistence.

A superb match for roast lamb, grilled rib eye, beef bourguignon, venison or mature hard cheeses. Drinking beautifully today, this classically styled Haut Médoc also has the balance and structure to reward further cellaring.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2038.