2018 Bernadotte Cru Bourgeois, Haut-Medoc

Blackcurrants, black olives and dried herbs with some smoked-meat and charred-wood character. It’s medium-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins. Focused and flavorful. Lightly chewy. Better from 2024.

91 points jamessuckling.com

Bernadotte Cru Bourgeois from the Haut Médoc is one of those Bordeaux wines that quietly overdelivers, offering classic Left Bank structure with an approachable, generous edge. The estate sits close to Pauillac, and that proximity shows in the wine’s shape and confidence, with gravelly soils that favour Cabernet Sauvignon and give the wine its firm spine and savoury depth.

Château Bernadotte has a long history in the Médoc, with vineyards planted on well drained gravel and sandy soils that encourage deep root systems and steady ripening. Over the years, careful vineyard work and thoughtful blending have lifted the estate into the upper tier of Cru Bourgeois producers, making it a reliable source of character driven Bordeaux that still represents excellent value.

The blend is typically led by Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Merlot and smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot depending on the year. In the glass, Bernadotte shows classic Médoc character. Blackcurrant, cassis and dark plum form the core, layered with cedar, graphite and subtle herbal notes. With a little air, hints of tobacco leaf and earthy spice emerge, adding complexity and depth.

The palate is medium to full bodied, with firm but well integrated tannins and fresh acidity that keep everything in balance. It is structured enough to age, yet supple enough to enjoy with food now, especially after a little decanting.

This is a natural partner for roast lamb, beef, game or mushroom based dishes, and it shines at the table rather than demanding centre stage. With time in the cellar, it gains more savoury nuance and polish, rewarding patience without requiring decades of waiting.

Bernadotte Cru Bourgeois is classic Haut Médoc done well, honest, dependable and quietly satisfying.