2016 Château la Bessane, Margaux
2016 Château la Bessane has another wonderful difference: 45% petit verdot. How is this different? With what is Bessane's comparatively high percentage of this classic Bordeaux varietal there is an intensified level of violet aromas on the nose and spicy, black fruit flavours on the palate. And given this growing seasons blessing of long, warm spells, petit verdot ripened fully, luxuriously, providing ever more opulence and depth that results in a triumphant 2015 cuvée. How delicious.
You'll be surprised too, and by how well its already drinking. Such that it'll be a chore keeping these bottled delights tucked away, given they've still plenty in the tank for much graceful ageing. Which is why taking out the insurance of an added extra case is always sound policy.
Tasting note:
Upon pouring from its deep, dark core and complex aromatics its immediately obvious that this is a serious wine of fine-dining calibre.
Those earthy, forest-floor aromas, that Margaux lovers savour, are already present, accompanied by dark-berry fruit a herbaceous character and warming, cedar and cigar box aromas from time resting in fine French oak.
As expected of the 2016 vintage the palate is deeply concentrated at this early stage, yet intensely rewarding with its signature core of dark forest gateaux fruit, plums currents, sweet spice and a veil of warming cedar wood. It's medium-bodied, beautifully balanced with great intensity on the lengthy finish.
This new 2016 release offers a slightly firmer tannic grip and deeper structure than its undeniably delicious 2015 predecessor, traits that will reward further cellaring to 2027 and beyond.
That being said, it is a thoroughly enjoyable glass of wine as it is, and I fully expect that many - myself included - will put patience to one side and pull the cork upon receipt of their wines, and why not!
Do take this opportunity to secure a case or two of this cracking Margaux - I didn't think the 2015 release could be bettered, but I may have just been proven wrong.
James Russell-Grant | Mr.Wheeler