2017 Ch Bellefont-Belcier Grand Cru Classé, St-Émilion

Dark fruit with chocolate and a hint of coffee on the nose. Medium to full body, fine tannins and a juicy finish. The toasted oak is a little predominant now, but this is going to come together beautifully. Excellent length, A blend of 70% merlot, 25% cabernet franc and 5% cabernet sauvignon. Try after 2022.

94 points James Suckling

Set on Saint Émilion's prized limestone slopes, Château Bellefont Belcier has emerged as one of the appellation's rising stars. Dating back to the 18th century, the estate combines exceptional terroir with meticulous vineyard management to produce wines of richness, precision and elegance. Since joining the Vignobles K group, significant investment in both the vineyard and winery has further elevated its reputation, cementing its place among the leading Grand Cru Classé estates of the Right Bank.

The 2017 vintage rewarded careful vineyard management, producing wines of freshness, purity and classical balance. The estate's limestone and clay soils delivered beautifully concentrated Merlot and Cabernet Franc, while the cool conditions preserved aromatic lift and mineral tension. Patient élevage has shaped a wine that is refined, expressive and built for graceful ageing.

Deep garnet with youthful ruby highlights, the bouquet opens with aromas of black cherry, plum and blackberry layered with violets, cedar and subtle spice. As the wine evolves, notes of graphite, truffle, tobacco leaf and forest floor emerge, adding complexity and unmistakable Saint Émilion character. The palate is beautifully structured, combining ripe dark fruits with silky tannins, lively acidity and a finely etched limestone backbone. Elegant and harmonious, the finish lingers with savoury spice, floral perfume and impressive persistence.

A superb companion for roast duck, herb crusted lamb, beef Wellington, wild mushroom pappardelle or mature Comté. Already drinking beautifully with a generous decant, this distinguished Saint Émilion will continue to reward patient cellaring over the next two decades.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2042.