2016 Petite Laurence, Bordeaux

The 2016 Petite Laurence is one of my favourite finds in recent years. As you'll know, 2016 was an outstanding year resulting in a claret of great pedigree and character. It was made in conjunction with the esteemed Hubert de Boüard of Château Angélus, one of the most prestigious Saint-Émilion estates classified Premier Grand Cru Classé A status. 

When I tasted this outstanding claret with the team, it unanimously secured first place among other red Bordeaux wines priced between £10 and £15 per bottle - this is what we call our 'superb drinking claret' price range and this is an everyday wine to enjoy with a chilli con carne or a well-aged steak.

Petite Laurence hails from the wonderfully intense 2016 vintage and offers pronounced dark currant and plum on the nose, and a palate laden with plush, ripe dark berry fruit with a hint of spice to the finish. This is a claret to buy a case or two of to stock up.

 - Johnny Wheeler, Chairman of Mr.Wheeler.

Tasting note
Dark fruits on the nose first, then cherry, plum, and cassis with light hints of perfumed violets. Five years in bottle show savoury aromas of leather now developing, too. Wondrously smooth palate, well-integrated dark fruit, and a delicious savoury coolness on the finish.

Critic's review
"The 2016 Petite Laurence is a pretty, delicate red to drink now and over the next few years. Pipe tobacco, herb, cedar and mint add nuance to a core of sweet red cherry fruit. This is an especially perfumed, lifted red. Aging mostly in steel keeps the flavors bright and focused. Laurence is co-owned by Hubert de Boüard and his cellarmaster at La Fleur de Boüard, Philippe Nunes."
Antonio Galloni, vinous.com