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WINE MERCHANTS

2016 BORDEAUX EN PRIMEURA THRILLING VINTAGE OF HARMONY,

POWER & FRESHNESS

ContentsPage

2016 Bordeaux En Primeur - Introduction 1

2016 Red Bordeaux 2

2016 Sweet White Bordeaux 15

Ways to Order 16

Buying Wine in Bond 16

Special Format Bottlings 16

Transferring Wine Under Bond 16

These wines are offered in bond UK, for delivery during 2019. Unless otherwiseindicated, prices are per case of 12 x 75cl bottles

2016 BORDEAUX EN PRIMEURA THRILLING VINTAGE OF HARMONY,

POWER & FRESHNESS

For further information or to place an orderPlease contact one of our offices:

Or visit our website: www.hhandc.co.uk

Gloucestershire01451 870 [email protected]

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WINE MERCHANTS

Impressions of the 2016 Vintage • 2016 is a thrilling vintage for Bordeaux reds, on a par with the great 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2015.• The best wines are remarkable for their beautiful harmony: rich fruit intensity is off-set by wonderfulbrightness. These are lively-yet-ripe wines, where alcohol levels are refreshingly lower than we have seen inthe region for several years.• Great examples can be found across all appellations, and the harvest was a generous one.• Sauternes and Barsac are of excellent quality: the best have superb concentration and vivacious acidities.

The Story of the Bordeaux 2016 VintageDuring the first half of the year, as much rain fell on Bordeaux as is normally seen over 12 months.Fortunately, the weather turned dry and sunny for most of the flowering period in June, which went throughspeedily. So a plentiful crop was in prospect, and one where grapes and bunches would come to ripenesswithin a narrow window, to be picked at optimum moments. This is an important quality factor, and theearly rainfall proved beneficial, for the summer was to be very dry. The accumulated water reserves werevital to the vintage’s success.

July had significantly less rain than the 30 year average (1981-2010), with 10% more sunshine. August hadonly 20% of normal rainfall, with 30% more sunshine. There was a heat-wave in early September, butmercifully, rainfall came in the middle of the month, allowing those vines which were heat-stressed to springback to life. The grape-ripening process then proceeded smoothly, with warm days and cool nights allowingprecious acidity to be conserved. Virtually no rain fell at all during the harvest period, which went throughsmoothly and calmly, with growers being able to wait for their individual plots to reach full ripeness.

The 2016 WinesThere are great successes in the northern Médoc, particularly Saint-Estèphe, where the influence of theAtlantic and the wide estuary of the Gironde kept the climate cool during the later stages of the growingseason. The great, central Haut-Médoc communes of Pauillac and Saint-Julien saw their plantations ofCabernet Sauvignon being brought to perfect ripeness, thanks to the dry, sunny days of October, just prior toharvest. It is rare to find such classic Cabernets, sumptuously fruity, while freshly ripe. In Margaux, as in2015, many gorgeous wines have been made, with Merlot often contributing importantly to the successes.Throughout the region, we find lighter alcohol levels than in 2015, with tannins and acidity in perfect bal-ance.

Pessac-Léognan – historically the birthplace of many of Bordeaux’s greatest wines – is a superb source of topreds in 2016, with Petit Verdot often now adding its complexity to the more widely-planted CabernetSauvignon and Merlot.

On the Right Bank, 2016 is undoubtedly first-rate in Pomerol. Several Saint-Emilion properties have alsopulled off brilliantly the challenge of bringing their grapes to perfect maturity, while avoiding over-ripenessand over-extractions.

2016 is also an exciting vintage in Sauternes and Barsac, where the “noble rot” which is essential to producegreat quality arrived in mid-October. Harmonious, refreshing wines with superb concentration have beenproduced.

How to Buy WellIt is always thrilling to navigate through Bordeaux’s intricate system and secure dependable, delicious bottlesas economically as possible, by buying early. Our combined experiences of young Bordeaux go back toharvesting the 1964 grapes, to buying En Primeur from the 1969 vintage onwards, and to offering the wines –in an increasingly major way – since the vintage of our firm’s foundation, in 1978. Today, the selections aremade following multiple tastings in early April by the HH&C buying team. This is always one of the mostchallenging, exhilarating wine-buying exercises in the world of wine, which we take extremely seriously!

We have secured many lovely wines amongst the 2016 Bordeaux, on both Right and Left Banks of theGironde. These wines show exceptional balance, with great potential to gain complexity with ageing. Theyhave come out at prices which are perfectly reasonable. We believe that they will never be available moreeconomically, and urge you to consider them without delay, whils stocks last. There are many thrilling,beautiful wines, which we warmly recommend.

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2016 Red Bordeaux

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Château HauraGraves Rouge 2016This little-known property in the southern Graves has been farmed since 2003 by thebrilliant Professor Denis Dubourdieu of Bordeaux University, and his sons. SadlyDenis passed away in 2016, however his family has made a superb success of thisvintage. The gravelly hillocks on which the vines grow are underlain by clay, whichheld moisture well, preventing leaf-loss during the hot, dry summer. The wine isassembled from 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 30% Merlot. Colour is impressivelydeep purple-ruby, with fresh, fully ripened red fruit aromas of great charm. The palateis full-bodied, with dense fruit, admirable freshness and lovely, supple length (totallydelicious, for drinking as soon as shipped, 2019-2022+).

£98.00 / case of 12 bottles

Château LanessanHaut-Médoc 2016There has been great progress here since the arrival of Madame Paz Espejo astechnical director in 2009. Ploughing of the soils has been extended, wine-makingtakes place at lower temperature, to maximise freshness, and ancient barrels havebeen replaced by new French oak, regularly renewed over three years. Vibratingsorting tables were introduced, along with optical sorting, to eliminate any imperfectgrapes. The 2016 was assembled from 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10%Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc. “For me, 2016 is the greatest vintage inBordeaux since I first came here in 1994” says Madame Paz. “At Lanessan, this isbetter than our 2010 and our 2015, more elegant and balanced. The grape pips werecrunchy and fully mature, smelling of walnuts, the fruit was ripe but not over-ripe, thetannins fleshy and velvety”. We love this wine, finding the colour impressive, withbright aromas of fresh blackcurrant. On the palate, this is classically structured, withfruit concentration, acidity and tannins in perfect harmony – superb value (for drinking2019-2030+).


Château Mauvesin-BartonMoulis-en-Médoc 2016This is the sixth vintage made by new owners, Lilian and Michel Barton Sartorius, whoacquired the property in August 2011. They bring the same expertise and experienceto bear here as at their Saint-Julien châteaux Langoa- and Léoville-Barton, which havebeen in the Barton family for eight generations. A variety of soils allow the four greatvine varieties to be planted, with, in 2016, Merlot making up 47% of the blend,Cabernet Sauvignon 28%, Cabernet Franc 18% and Petit Verdot 7%. Wine-making hasbeen modernised and the oak barrel cellarage up-graded, with one third of barrelsbeing new, and one third being passed on from Léoville each year. Colour is mediumgarnet-ruby, the nose being fragrant, open and ripe. Palate is full, with beautifulfruitiness, acidity and tannins in fine balance, and lovely length (for drinking 2019-2025+).



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Château Puy-BlanquetGrand Cru Saint-Emilon 2016Puy-Blanquet is one of the most complete, best value Saint-Emilions we know, and isparticularly successful in 2016. The 2016 wine is assembled from 90% Merlot with10% Cabernet Franc, the average age of the vineyard now being 40 years. Colour ismedium-deep, rich purple, the nose showing bright, open fruit, recalling red cherries.The various lots of wine are being carefully rotated through barrels of different ages,allowing flavour development, with gentle softening of tannins. The wine has brightfruitiness, rich middle-palate and refreshing, splendidly lively aftertaste (for drinking2019-2025+).


Château Picque-Caillou RougePessac-Léognan 201660% of this wine is from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes (one of the highest proportionsever seen at this property), the balance being 35% Merlot, with 5% Petit Verdot.Quality was so high that 70% of the estate’s production made it into the Grand Vin(against 65% last year). The wine is presently ageing in 40% new barrels, with 30%each in barrels which have held one, or two harvests. Colour is rich and deep, withvibrantly fruity, black cherry aromas, both fresh and open. Palate is richly structured,with beguiling, fresh fruitiness, gentle tannins and immaculate, lovely length. Superbvalue (for drinking 2019-2028).


A L L P R I C E S A R E Q U O T E D I N B O N D U K ( F O R D E L I V E RY 2 0 1 9 )

Château La Tour de BessanMargaux 2016This is one of the unsung beauties of Margaux and one of its greatest values. Its linkswith England go back to 1433 when the mediaeval castle was given by Henry VI tothe Duke of Gloucester. It has been owned and run since 1992 by Marie-LaureLurton, helped by the Boissenot consultancy, which looks after almost all the topHaut-Médoc properties. The vines are now carefully tended to respect the naturalenvironment (since 2003 being certified Terra Vitis). Merlot makes up 77% of the2016 blend, with Cabernet Sauvignon 22% and Petit Verdot 1%, with the wine nowageing 30% in new oak, and slightly older barrels. Colour is rich purple of mediumdepth, the nose being fragrant and open. Superbly ripened Merlot grapes ensure thatthe palate is suavely textured and magnificently rich in fruitiness. Acidity is in finebalance, as are mouth-coating tannins of great charm (for drinking 2019-2026+).



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Château de Bel-AirLalande de Pomerol 2016The vines here have an average age of 36 years, being situated on gravel hilltops anda gentle slope leading down to the Barbanne stream, with the Pomerol appellation justacross the water. This is one of the best terroirs of Lalande de Pomerol, with big-gravelsoils making up 70% of the estate, the balance being gravels mixed with clay or sand.We were delighted to welcome this wine back into our selection with the 2015vintage, after several years’ absence. New owners Christel and Michel de LaetDerache acquired the château in 2011 and rapidly undertook modernisation of thewinery, and barrel-storage area. The investments have born fruit magnificently. The2016 wine comes from 73% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc with 8% CabernetSauvignon, now ageing in 40% new barrels. Madame de Laet Derache says of her2016: “Like our 2015, this is very promising but you must let it mature. There’s nopoint sharing a meal with babies, you need adults at table!” Colour is purple-ruby ofmedium depth, the nose being vibrant with fresh red fruits. Palate shows fine balancebetween fruit density, good structure, refreshing acidity and smooth aftertaste – alovely wine (for drinking 2019 to 2028+).


Château La GurgueMargaux 2016This is a tiny Margaux property, with just 26 acres in production, producing one ofappellation’s finest value wines. The average age of the vines is now 32 years, so, aswine-maker Gérard Fenouillet told us: “their deep roots were able to withstand stressfrom the dry weather. We were able to pick grapes which had retained theirfreshness. This is particularly important for the Merlots, which were crisp andcrunchy.” The 2016 assemblage is 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot with 6%Petit Verdot. This is strikingly deep purple-ruby, with rich, fully ripened, blackberryaromas. Palate shows generous fruit concentration, combining the inimitable finesseof Margaux with vivacious freshness and a gentle, well-rounded finish. This wine hassumptuous texture and lovely length (for drinking 2019-2030+).


Château Ségur de CabanacSaint-Estèphe 2016This is a small property by Haut-Médoc standards, with just 20 acres under vines, butit is one of our favourite Saint-Estèphe addresses. 1986 was Guy Delon`s first harvesthere, after the family property, Ch Phélan-Ségur, was sold, following his parents`death. As with the greatest classed growths, the vineyards here benefit from thewarming influence of the Gironde estuary, which is very close by.

The 2016 has a bright purple colour, with enticing, fresh, floral aromas, recalling ripeblack berry fruits. Palate is complete and harmonious, with ample flesh and broad,satisfying textures. The tannins are ripe and in perfect balance. There is an energyand brightness in this wine, which will be wonderful to drink from 2022-2030+.

Château Cantemerle5ème Cru Classé Haut-Médoc 2016This château is said to have taken its name from the singing of the Merle, a massivecannon with which the French bombarded the English, during the Hundred Years War.Quality here has been regularly climbing, as extensive vineyard replantings of theearly 1980s have now reached full maturity. Deeply rooted vines ensured regularaccess to moisture during the parching summer. The 2016 assemblage is 52%Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, nowageing in 40% new oak barrels, with 40% in one-year, and the balance in 2-old yearbarrels. Colour is impressively deep, with lively, blackcurrant aromas. Palate showsdense, penetrating fruitiness, with well-judged balance of refreshing acidity and finetannins, promising elegant complexity and smoothness after mid-term ageing (fordrinking 2020-2032+).


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Château ChantalouettePomerol 2016This is the second wine of Ch de Sales, which is one of Pomerol’s best lovedtraditional properties, owned by the de Lambert family for over 5 centuries. OwnerBruno de Lambert told us: “This is my 42nd vintage, and certainly one of the threebest I’ve made during my career. Everything was good this year.” The vines grow onfine gravel and sandy, well-draining soils, and in 2016 have produced a wine ofbeautiful, supple fruitiness. Gentle tannins merge with refreshing acidity to give aharmonious, succulent Pomerol which will be totally delicious (for drinking 2019-2025+).

Château Haut-Bages MonpelouPauillac 2016This château’s vines are superbly situated on the plateau of one of Pauillac’s bestsectors. It rubs shoulders with vineyards belonging to classed growths Grand-Puy-Ducasse and Lynch-Moussas, and until 1948 formed part of the 4th Growth ChDuhart-Milon. The 2016 has been assembled from 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27%Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, and is ageing in 60% new barrels. Colour is medium-deep, ruby purple, with fine, open aromas which leap from the glass. Palate hasimposing, full-bodied structure, with concentrated fruitiness, freshness and length. Asuperb, great value wine which is ideal for mid-term ageing (for drinking 2021-2030+).


Château Lacoste-BoriePauillac 2016The second wine of the celebrated Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Lacoste-Borieencapsulates all the classic qualities of Pauillac. The vines lie at the heart of thecommune, mid-way between the châteaux which border Saint-Estèphe (to the north),and those adjoining Saint-Julien (to the south). The assemblage in 2016 is 61%Cabernet Sauvignon, with 29% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Colour is brightpurple, the attractive, floral aromas being both ripe and very fresh. There is intense,vibrant fruit and elegant structure, the tannins being silky. Here is a wine of splendidvitality, that will charm drinkers for years to come (for drinking 2020-2027+).



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Château Carbonnieux RougePessac-Léognan 2016This family property is one of the most ancient of the Graves district, the cradle ofBordeaux wines, with a reputation dating back nearly 600 years. Previous ownersingeniously evaded the strictures of the Koran by shipping wine to the teetotal Turkishcourt at Constantinople as “eau minérale de Carbonnieux.” The Perrins bought theproperty in 1956 and the 3rd generation – brothers Eric and Philibert – have beensuccessfully invigorating it, with Marc of the next generation now beside them. Theblend in 2016 is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 45% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and1% Petit Verdot, the wine showing rich, deep purple colour and abundantly fine, ripefruitiness on the nose. The Merlots bring plush middle-palate succulence, theCabernets admirable structure and intensity. Fruit is balanced by fine acidity andgentle tannins, with a harmonious, buoyant aftertaste (for drinking 2020-2035+).



Château Latour-Martillac RougePessac-Léognan 2016This is one of only six estates in Bordeaux to be a Classed Growth for both white andred productions. Passionately run by the Kressman family for three generations, it hasrecently seen expansion and investment, with restructuring of the vineyards, to ensurethat the Cabernets are on the most appropriate terroirs for them, the Merlots also.Wine making has been modernised, helped by the late, great consultant Prof. DenisDubourdieu. The 2016 assemblage consists of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlotwith 8% Petit Verdot. The latter grape has been contributing significantly more to theblend, in recent years. In a ripe vintage, it brings colour, piercing fruitiness, and arefreshing curl of extra flavour to the finish. The 2016 is very deep, dense purple incolour, with richly aromatic, red and black fruit aromas. Palate starts powerfullystructured, with flowing, intense mid-section, showing superb balance of alcohol,freshness and rich tannins. This is a stunning wine, capable of long-term ageing, withadmirable length (for drinking 2021-2038+).


Château Saint Georges Côte PavieGrand Cru Classé St-Emilion 2016This is a tiny property (just 13.5 acres) which has belonged to the Masson family since1873, its hillside vineyards being situated on one of Saint-Emilion’s classic slopes,between Châteaux Pavie and La Gaffelière. 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Francmake up the assemblage, with the wine now ageing in 60% new oak barrels. Colouris very pretty ruby-purple of medium depth, the nose showing refined, fresh, fragrantaromas, recalling reds cherries and dried rose petals. Palate has richly-built, charmingfruitiness, with gently-textured tannins. The finish is harmonious, long and full offinesse. This little-known gem is one of the un-sung delights of Saint-Emilion, at anexceptionally reasonable price (for drinking 2021-2029+).


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Château Lafleur-GazinPomerol 2016The balance between structure, fruit and freshness is particularly successful here in2016, as the summer drought had very little impact on its vineyards. The vines ofLafleur-Gazin lie on the edge of the clay-rich, central plateau of Pomerol, betweentwo famous neighbours: Châteaux Gazin and Lafleur. The vineyards have beenmanaged since 1973 by Ets. Jean-Pierre Moueix, on behalf of the grand-daughters ofowner, Madame Delfour-Borderie.

Merlot grapes overwhelmingly make up the heart of this wine, with 6% CabernetFranc bringing vivacity and complexity to the Merlots’ velvety, dense fruitiness.Average age of the vines is around 35 years. In the cellar, a fifth to a quarter of thebarrels is renewed each year. Like many Pomerol châteaux, this is a small property(with just 21 acres under vines).

In colour the 2016 is medium-deep, ruby-purple, with subtly aromatic, refreshingaromas, recalling red and black fruits. The palate starts full-bodied, with fruitinesssuperbly maintained all the way through to soft tannins, lovely freshness and a mouth-embracing, splendidly long finish (for drinking 2020-2030+).


Château du Tertre5ème Cru Classé Margaux 2016In the past, this estate was planted with roughly one third each of Cabernet Sauvignon,Cabernet Franc and Merlot. New owners arrived in 1997 and big changes followed,with the proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot both climbing, andMerlot falling back. The 2016 wine is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 10%each of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot, presently ageing in 40% newbarrels. Colour is rich, deep purple, the nose showing beautifully perfumed fruitiness.The palate has impressive volume, intense fruitiness, fresh, satin-like texture andexceptional length. Having enjoyed the 2015 so much last year, this 2016 is anothergreat vintage for du Tertre (for drinking 2022-2035+).



Château BourgneufPomerol 2016This property has been in the Vayron family since 1840, for eight generations. Thevineyards are superbly situated close to some of Pomerol’s greatest properties,including Trotanoy and Latour à Pomerol. There are just over 21 acres of vineyard, sothis is always a rare wine. We have often fallen in love with it, the first vintage weshipped being the 1981. Subtle adjustments in vineyard and winery since 2008, whendaughter Frédérique joined her parents on the property, have significantly raisedquality. For instance, harvesting is more precise than it used to be, and they may stopthe vintage, to allow individual plots to ripen fully. “We never used to do this inPomerol,” says Madame Vayron senior. A second wine label was introduced in 2012,for the produce of young vines, and Bourgneuf’s fruit intensity has consequently beenboosted.

The 2016 was assembled from 85% Merlot with 15% Cabernet Franc, and, as in pastyears, the wine is ageing in around 30% new barrels. It shows splendid depth ofpurple colour, the nose being vibrant with ripe intensity. The palate is full-bodied,with an explosion of elegant fruit, and rich texture. Tannins are gently mouth-coating,with beautiful length. This has great potential for ageing, and is a perfect candidatefor bottling into magnums and larger formats (for drinking 2020-2032+).

Château d’Armailhac5ème Cru Classé Pauillac 2016Ownership and wine-making philosophy are the same here as at Ch Mouton-Rothschild, and this property has greatly benefitted from the family links. Since 2006,all grapes have been carefully brought by gravity into the vats – which means that thetannin extractions are very gentle, being initiated not by automatic, mechanicalmeans, but solely after tasting and careful assessment.

Tasted on four separate occasions in Bordeaux this spring, the 2016 consistentlyimpressed us. The blend comprises 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8%Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot: the high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignonshines beautifully in the aromas here, which recall ripe, concentrated, sweetly spicedblackcurrants. Palate is full and plump, with splendid breadth of fresh, pure cassisfruit. This is a vibrant mouthful with lovely follow-through and an elegant, finelytannic, long-flavoured finish (for drinking 2022-2040+).


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Château Lafon-Rochet4ème Cru Classé Saint-Estèphe 2016The Tesseron family has been owner here since 1959, and also at Ch Pontet-Canet inPauillac since 1975. When current Managing Director Basile Tesseron joined hisfather at Lafon-Rochet in 2006, the estate was still very much in the shadow of Pontet-Canet, despite being barely half a mile from its vines, and sandwiched directlybetween Cos d’Estournel and Ch Lafite. Under Basile’s management, Lafon-Rochethas slowly but surely become one of the most exciting estates in the Médoc. It hasborrowed some of the artisan philosophy of Ponet-Canet in terms of biodynamic andorganic practices (the 2016 is the first Lafon-Rochet that is 100% organic), investmenthas been made in vineyards and winery, and the great Jean-Claude Berrouet (who waswinemaker at Ch Pétrus for 40 years) is now their wine making consultant. Thegreater quality here is startling: the 2016 is the best Lafon-Rochet that we have evertasted.

In 2016, the wine was made from 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 6%Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. It is deep purple in colour, with expressive,finely perfumed violet and blackcurrant aromas. The palate is richly structured arounda tightly-knit, concentrated, pure middle, with a lively, multi-layered, fresh, gentlytannic finish. This is a beautiful, elegant wine – a great success story (for drinking2022-2036+).



Château Batailley5ème Cru Classé Pauillac 2016The Castéja family has poured huge investment into this château over recent years,and quality has climbed impressively. With guidance, for many years from ProfessorDenis Dubourdieu of Bordeaux University (consultant here 2001-2015) a policy ofgently simmering the wine beneath its grape-skin cap, after the tumultuousfermentation, was introduced – to help build the wine’s body. The 2016 has a higherproportion – 85% – of Cabernet Sauvignon than usual, with 12% Merlot and 3% PetitVerdot. The wine is ageing in 60% new barrels. The colour shows purple-ruby tintsof medium depth, the nose being open, with bright aromas of great distinction. Palateis well-structured, with dense fruitiness and tannins which are fully rounded, withoutasperity or harshness. This is a classic Pauillac of power and character, with greatlength, which will age magnificently (for drinking 2020–2035+).



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Château La SerreGrand Cru Classé Saint-Emilion 2016Perched on the limestone heights of Saint-Emilion, within 200 metres of the town’sancient walls and moat, this little-known jewel of a property produces a wine whichdefines Saint-Emilion at its best. There are less than 16 acres in production, the vinesaveraging 35 years of age. In 2016 the blend reflects how the vineyard is planted:80% Merlot with 20% Cabernet Franc. Owner Luc d’Arfeuille has stuck to his guns,determined to make another classically balanced wine – in which he has completelysucceeded. “I aim to produce wines which will give pleasure, which everyone willenjoy to drink.” There is no over-extraction here, no delayed harvesting to achieveover-ripeness, and only a judicious replacement of 40% of the barrels each year.

2016 La Serre is purple-ruby of medium depth, the nose showing fresh, bright, openaromas. In the mouth, there is immediate, bouncing fruitiness, with mid-palate ofclassic proportions, creamily-textured tannins and lovely, fresh length. Here is animpeccably-balanced wine, highly recommended for mid-term ageing (for drinking2020-2032+).


Château La Lagune3ème Cru Classé Haut-Médoc 2016Ch La Lagune is re-claiming its position as one of the Haut-Médoc’s leading ClassedGrowths. The Frey family has, since 2000, been investing in vineyard re-structuring,winery modernisation and barrel-storage improvements. Ploughing has been re-introduced, and the estate is now 100% organic.

Composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2016 ispresently ageing in 50% new, French oak barrels. This is ruby-purple of impressivedepth, with fragrant, fresh, intense dark berry aromas. First impression is ofmagnificent, full, juicy fruitiness, then middle-palate shows striking, opulently suppletexture, gentle tannins and lively, luscious length. This is a great, complete, vividHaut-Médoc, with exceptional harmony and superb potential (for drinking 2024-2038+).


Château Langoa-Barton3ème Cru Classé Saint-Julien 2016This property was bought by Hugh Barton in 1821. It has been in the same family forlonger than any other classed growth château in the Haut-Médoc. Current owners areAnthony Barton, his daughter Lilian, her husband Michel and their two childrenMélanie and Damien (who represent the 8th generation of Bartons, and have nowjoined the property).

The wine is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc,presently ageing in 60% new barrels. There is a higher proportion of Merlot than weused to find in Langoa – accounted for, as in 2015, by the lovely quality of long-established vines, now joined by an extra plot (planted 11 years ago) whoseproduction merits inclusion in the Grand Vin.

The wine is limpid garnet-purple of medium depth, the aromas being rich, clean, ripeand fresh. Palate shows profound fruitiness from the very first impression. It hasample structure, without heaviness, and has refreshing acidity, rounded tannins andsplendidly elegant length. Langoa in 2016 has produced a flamboyant, beautifully-balanced wine with a great future ahead of it (for drinking 2021-2035+).



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Château d’Issan3ème Cru Classé Margaux 2016Along with Ch Latour and Ch Beychevelle, Ch d’Issan has one of the oldest historiesof any wine property in the Médoc. Legend has it that this wine was served at thewedding of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry Plantagenet, ushering in 300 years ofEnglish rule – featuring the birth of claret, and Bordeaux’s most glorious centuries,many believe! The Cruse family recently celebrated their 70th anniversary of owningthe property, which was bought by Emmanuel’s grand-parents in 1945. He has mademany investments in quality improvements, and now retains only the greatest vats – in2016, just 45% of the total production – for inclusion in the Grand Vin. He takesadvice from Eric Boissenot, the Médoc’s leading consultant wine-maker, who advisesall the First Growths. The 2016 blend contains 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 36%Merlot, and is now ageing in 50% new barrels.

In colour, this is medium deep, purple-garnet, the nose showing open, cherry-fresharomas, both ripe and fragrant. Palate has dense, well-rounded fruit intensity, withluscious, creamy texture. There was regularly a 20 degree difference between day-and night-time temperatures during the summer here, which allowed perfect ripenessto be achieved, while fine acidity was retained. Tannins are gentle, well-rounded.This wine has great energy, power and length, the finish being expansive, harmoniousand absolutely thrilling (for drinking 2022-2040+).


Château Branaire-Ducru4ème Cru Classé Saint Julien 2016 While many top châteaux in the Haut-Médoc have fallen into the hands of banks orinsurance companies, Ch Branaire-Ducru has maintained its independence. Theowning Maroteau family lives here, with daily involvement in all aspects. The winerywas totally re-built in 1991, pioneering gravity-fed wine-making in the Médoc. Theadvantage of this is that grapes are not squashed at the de-stemming stage, but gentlyhandled, to retain their integrity. It is not mechanical pumping which starts extractionsof colour, aromas and flavours, but the guiding hand of the wine-maker, after carefultasting of skins and juice.

In 2016, the blend here is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot and4% Cabernet Franc. 60% of the barrels are new, the balance being one year old.Wine-maker Jean-Dominique Videau (in place since 2002) comments, as we taste:“Our harvest lasted from 29th September until 19th October – the longest ever here.All the grape varieties were marvellous, and the Petits Verdots very fine, very elegant.”Colour of this 2016 is deep purple, all the way to the rim. Aromas are elegant, richand bright. Palate is full-bodied, with sumptuous, plump fruitiness, well integratedacidity and rich, gentle tannins. Tasted four times, this consistently showed itself to beabsolutely magnificent. It is a superbly harmonious, great wine (for drinking 2020-2040+).



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Château Brane Cantenac2ème Cru Classé Margaux 2016Once again, owner Henri Lurton has fashioned one of the greatest wines of hisappellation. The blend consists of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 2%Cabernet Franc and 1% Carmenère, now ageing in 70% new barrels. There areseveral keys to the great success of the vintage here. During high summer, teams wentalong the rows to identify and mark vines showing water stress. This was the casewith some infill-planting, and also where Cabernet Sauvignons had been grafted ontoMerlot rootstocks (to increase the proportion of the former). Grapes from these vineswere picked separately, then excluded from the Grand Vin. Another key was thecombination of cool nights with warm days, which brought purity and freshness to thewine. Average age of the vines is 35-40 years, and these are now deep-rooted. Thiswas crucial in high summer, as on many parts of the Brane plateau the water table is6-10 metres below the surface. Selection of individual vats was very stringent,resulting in only 40% of the production going into the Grand Vin. Colour is medium-deep, garnet-purple, with richly fragrant, complex aromas. Profoundly structured,with superbly dense fruitiness, this has creamy texture and great vivacity. Tannins andacidity are perfectly harmonised, length and potential are totally outstanding (fordrinking 2020-2040+).


Château GazinPomerol 2016This is the largest of the great growths of Pomerol to be situated on its famous, clay-gravel central plateau. All the best properties are clustered round Pétrus, and Gazin isno exception. Merlots make up 87% of the 2016 assemblage, with 8% CabernetSauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, and the wine now ageing in 45% new oak.Christophe de Bailliencourt (whose family has owned it since 1917) told us: “We weresomewhat worried by the drought, up to early September, however rains then revivedour vines. We were able to pick, sector by sector, from 22nd September through to13th October, with no rainfall during the picking. There was no rot, and no danger ofover-ripeness.” Colour is rich purple of medium depth, the nose being beautifullyfresh and fragrant. The palate shows broad structure, with dense, lusciously texturedfruitiness, superb harmony and magnificent length. We think this is the greatest Gazinwe have ever seen (for drinking 2021-2038+).



Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste5ème Cru Classé Pauillac 2016The father and daughter team of François-Xavier and Emeline Borie has produced oneof the great wines of the 2016 vintage. 79% of the blend is Cabernet Sauvignon, with21% Merlot, the wine currently ageing in 75% new oak barrels. The vines grow in asingle block, around the Château, atop an impressive gravel mound, with fine views.

The colour is a bright, deep purple, the aromas being concentrated, combining ripeblack fruits and intense stony freshness. This is a magnificent wine of considerabledepth, that is vibrant, lively and has tremendous energy. Rich, supple, with a fleshymiddle and super texture, the structure is magnificent, the tannins super-fine.Powerful to finish, with outstanding length of flavour, this is a true classic (for drinking2025–2045+).


APPELLATION PAUILLAC CONTRÔLÉE

DOMAINES FRANÇOIS-XAVIER BORIE, PROPRIÉTAIRE À PAUILLAC, (GIRONDE)

PRODUCE OF FRANCE - BORDEAUXCONTAINS SULFITES

Château Canon1er Grand Cru Classé Saint-Emilion 2016 This is one of Saint-Emilion’s most perfectly positioned properties, with vineyards onthe limestone plateau beside the town, facing south and south-west. In 2016, this isone of the greatest wines of the vintage on the Right Bank. The blend consists of 74%Merlot, with a significant proportion, 26%, of Cabernet Franc; 65% of the barrels inwhich this wine is ageing are new, the balance having held one previous vintage.Colour is gorgeous ruby-purple of medium depth, the nose being floral, open and pure- incredibly alluring and wonderfully perfumed. On the palate, the wine showsclassic, glorious balance between vibrant fruit, delicately built structure and long-lasting, silkily-textured, vivacious aftertaste. The tannins are mouth-coating. The wine’sconcentration and intensityare wrapped around with seductive charm, with the mostdistinguished finish. A magnificent wine with superb potential (for drinking 2022-2045+).* Given very limited availability of this wine, it is sold on an allocation only basis -please contact us as soon as possible if you are interested in receiving an allocation.*

Château Léoville-Barton2ème Cru Classé Saint-Julien 2016This famous property has been in the same family since 1826, when Hugh Bartonpurchased a quarter of the big Léoville estate, his part then becoming known asLéoville-Barton. As at Ch Langoa-Barton (see page 9) the current proprietors areAnthony Barton’s daughter Lilian Barton-Sartorius and her two children Mélanie, anoenologist, and Damien (representing the 8th Barton generation). The Bartons areone of only two families (the others being the Rothschilds) to have retained ownershipof their properties, since the 1855 Classification.

In 2016, Cabernet Sauvignons constitute 86% of the blend, with Merlots the balance.Average age of the vines is 38 years, which have given a wine of modest, refreshingalcohol - 13 degrees - now ageing in 60% new barrels. Colour is deep purple, all theway to the rim, with strikingly aromatic, vivacious red and black fruit pungency. Thewine is richly structured, with a perfect balance of acidity and tannins, fruit intensityand magnificent length. This wine combines power, fruit concentration, finesse andsilky tannins. If you have a child, grand-child or god-child born or conceived in2016, this could be the perfect gift. The wine will mature gently over two or moredecades, gaining length, smoothness, complexity and great beauty through the years –however, our allocations are limited (for drinking 2022-2040+).


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Château Certan de MayPomerol 2016 This is the third year that legendary Jean-Claude Berrouet (who made more than 40vintages at Ch Petrus) has been sole consultant here, and Ch Certan de May continuesto go from strength to strength. It is a rare property, which lies at the heart ofPomerol’s greatest sector, the siliceous-clay, central plateau. In 2016, the Merlotswere harvested during four different periods, to ensure that each plot reached perfectripeness, without over-ripeness. They represent 65% of the blend, with CabernetFrancs contributing 31% and Cabernet Sauvignons the balance. “Merlots bring theroundness,” says owner Jean-Luc Barreau, “and Cabernets the boost.” Fine-tuning ofthe wine-making now sees the gentlest of extractions, to ensure that tannins are roundand succulent, marrying perfectly with the wine’s rich fruitiness. The proportion ofnew barrels being used has also been reduced (to about a third, from 50% in previousvintages) which further enriches the exhilarating freshness of this wine. Medium-deepgarnet-purple in colour, with opulent aromas, this has spectacular structure, denselyconcentrated mid-palate and outstandingly harmonious aftertaste. This is compelling,with magnificent potential (for drinking 2022-2035+).


Château Bélair-Monange1er Grand Cru Classé Saint-Emilion 2016 The vineyards of Ch Bélair-Monange occupy some of the choicest plots of theappellation. One third lie on Saint-Emilion’s limestone plateau, near the historic town,one third are on adjoining, south-facing, steep hillsides, with the balance being on theterraces between the two. This property was bought by the Moueix family in 2008,and they have had to make massive investments shoring up the land. Beneath thevines lies a honeycomb of ancient galleries in the limestone, which were excavated toprovide stones for building. Above ground, many plots were in need of re-planting,which is slowly taking place.

Today, only wine from fully mature plots and the best sites is chosen for the GrandVin, with the 2016 assemblage being 92% Merlot, with Cabernet Franc. Colour ismedium deep, rich purple. Nose is magnificently fresh, open and complex. Palateshows remarkable harmony between rich structure, dense fruitiness, creamy textureand silky, refreshing, gentle length. Tannins are present, yet without asperity.International demand has taken the price of Cheval Blanc and Ausone to levels whereregular consumption is beyond the reach of most of us. Luckily, Bélair-Monange –coming from totally comparable, great terroirs – is now a powerful magnet for those ofus who relish the greatest, most classic Saint-Emilions. Stocks are limited, however, sowe urge you to let us know your requirements as soon as possible. This is a great andgorgeous wine, with immense potential (for drinking 2021-2040+).


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Château La Fleur-PétrusPomerol 2016The vineyards which today constitute Ch La Fleur-Pétrus lie in three exceptionalsectors on Pomerol’s famous plateau. Partly, they are just across a narrow road fromChPétrus itself, where they touch another rare Pomerol, Lafleur. An additional plot ofadjoining land, planted with old, mainly Merlot vines, was acquired in the mid-1990s.During the 2000s and in 2011, more superbly-placed vines were bought, lying aroundHosanna, and also between Trotanoy and Le Pin. The wine is now made at a state-of-the-art winery in Pomerol village, and La Fleur-Pétrus has greater structure and moreconcentration than ever before. With its finesse, potential complexity and sensationaltexture, it is increasingly recognised as one of Pomerol’s quintessential, most thrillingwines.

In colour, this 2016 this is solidly rich purple, all the way to the rim. Aromas arepowerful, recalling fresh black cherries, with complex, fragrant spiciness. On thepalate, this is densely fruity, with impressive structure, and great concentration. Itspotential for ageing is clearly apparent – from its concentrated, dense core offruitiness, its freshness of aftertaste, its mouthcoatingly rich tannins, and above all fromits exceptional length. It is elegant, luscious, and magnificent – undoubtedly one ofBordeaux’s greatest bottles this year (for drinking 2020-2040+). As in the past, we willfavour passionate Pomerol-lovers when making allocations.



Château Palmer3ème Cru Classé Margaux 2016Palmer has fully embraced bio-dynamic production, 2016 being its third vintage to becertified as such. The upside is enhanced brightness of fruit and purity of acidity, thedownside in 2016 being the significant reduction in yield. The style though hasstayed true to the Palmer traditions, and faithful to its vision for the Margaux appella-tion. This means the silkiest of textures, with profound, fine fruit, extraordinaryperfume and the greatest finesse.

In 2016, Cabernet Sauvignon represents 47% of the blend, Merlot also 47% and PetitVerdot 6%. Colour is deeply purple, the nose being concentrated, very fine and floral.The palate shows outstanding purity and freshness, with rich black fruit character. Thetexture is astonishingly beautiful, being silky and suave. This is one of the great winesof the vintage, it has tremendous depth, superfine structure and great length (for drink-ing 2028-2050+).


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2016 Sweet White Bordeaux


15A L L P R I C E S A R E Q U O T E D I N B O N D U K ( F O R D E L I V E RY 2 0 1 9 )

Château Doisy Daëne2ème Cru Classé Barsac 2016 Château Doisy Daëne has been owned by the Dubourdieu family since 1924. Fourgenerations of Dubourdieus have been at the helm here, with Fabrice and Jean-Jacquescontinuing to ensure excellence since their father Denis passed away last year. In2016 this is again one of the vintage’s most outstanding wines. Vineyard plantings are86% Semillon with 14% Sauvignon blanc, with vine age averaging 40 years. Colouris golden-green of medium depth, the nose being aromatic and very elegant recallinghoneyed pineapple, sweet lemon peel and spice. The palate is intense, rich andcreamy, with vibrancy, fine acidity and beautiful, refreshing length. This is a perfectlybalanced, sweet-yet-energetic Barsac, which will gain in complexities (for drinking2020-2032+).

Château Sigalas-Rabaud1er Cru Classé Sauternes 2016Sigalas-Rabaud is the smallest Sauternes First Growth, with 33 acres of gravelly, southand south-east facing vineyards, lying within eye-shot (500 metres) of the great Chd’Yquem. It was originally part of Château Rabaud until the latter was divided intoSigalas-Rabaud and Rabaud-Promis, in 1903. The two properties were reunited in1929, before being separated again in 1952. It is currently owned and managed bythe sixth generation of the Sigalas family, Laure de Lambert Compeyrot. In 2016, theblend is 85% Semillon with 15% Sauvignon, ageing in 30% new oak barrels. Thecolour is pale, green golden, with pungently vibrant, tropical fruit and spicy aromas ofgreat distinction. On the palate, this has spectacular fruitiness and racy intensity, witha lively, balanced, beautiful, long finish (for drinking 2020-2035+).




Château Suduiraut1er Cru Classé Sauternes 2016Under the same ownership as Ch Pichon Longueville Baron, this is now firmlyrecognised as one of the greatest Sauternes First Growths, and benefits from all themeticulous care needed to produce the finest wines. Picking of grape berries oftentakes place literally one by one, and there is rigorous elimination of all but the bestbarrels from the final Grand Vin selection.

In colour, green-golden, this wine’s aromas are intense and powerful, showing thecomplex, elegant, multilayered character which only comes in the greatest Sauternesyears. Palate is concentrated, with rich, honeyed fruitiness, sumptuous texture,mineral tension and vitalising acidity, which will ensure many decades of growingcomplexity. Length is spectacular, spicy and refreshing (for drinking 2022-2045+).

Ways to OrderPlease contact one of our offices:

Or visit our website: www.hhandc.co.uk

Buying Wine In Bond

Prices in this offer are quoted per case of 12 x 75cl bottles in bond UK, unless otherwise stated. Onceshipped to the UK (in spring 2019) they will incur duty and VAT (at the prevailing rate) upon release frombonded warehouse. Any wines not delivered by our own delivery vehicles will be subject to a carriagecharge.

Please be aware that these wines are available in limited quantities. In the event of demand exceedingsupply, we will do our best to allocate the wines fairly.

Special Format Bottlings

Please remember: by deciding now, you can order your wine to be bottled into Magnums, Double-Magnumsor Imperials - with future, special celebrations in mind. Supplements for special formats are as follow:

BOTTLE SIZES UNITS PER CASE £ PER CASEHalf bottles 24 x 37.5cl 15.00Magnums (2 regular bottles) 6 x 1.5L 15.00

3 x 1.5L 10.00Double Magnums (4 regular bottles) 3 x 3L 75.00Imperial (8 regular bottles) 1 x 6L 45.00

Transferring Wine Under BondWe are able to arrange under bond transfers of all the wines in this offer. For transfers into Octavian accountsthere is no charge, however a charge will be incurred for transfers to accounts held at other bondedwarehouses. If you would be interested in setting up a storage facility with Nexus Wine Collections atOctavian, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.


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Gloucestershire01451 870 [email protected]

London020 7584 [email protected]

Hampshire01256 830 104 [email protected]


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GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Sheep StreetStow-on-the-WoldGloucestershireGL54 1AA

[email protected]: 01451 870 808

LONDON

7 Elystan StreetLondonSW3 3NT


HAMPSHIRE

7 Church StreetWhitchurchHampshireRG28 7AA


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WINE MERCHANTS - hhandc · fruitiness, rich middle-palate and refreshing, splendidly lively...

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Transcript of WINE MERCHANTS - hhandc · fruitiness, rich middle-palate and refreshing, splendidly lively...