2016 Château Cap St-Georges, Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion
There's a real sense of 'old-school claret' here, and I'm instantly reminded of why I enjoyed the previous vintage so much; the deep, dark core and delicately paling brim hint at intensity and maturity. Pouring releases aromas of ripe, dark berries and dried herb whipped around with tertiary aromas of polished wood, leather and rustic earthy undertones.
The palate is alive with a swathe of brambly red-berry fruit, gentle cracked black pepper, bell pepper, subtle herbaceous notes and woody smoky spice, with dark berries and spiced plum surfacing and holding long on the finish.
The grip is fine grained, almost dusty in nature, coating the mouth and really frames the fruit and tertiary flavours perfectly. Polish up your decanter, dust of your pry-bar and prepare to serve this delicious 2016 Château Cap St. Georges alongside your Sunday roast of choice, where the grip will melt away to reveal further flavours of dried fruit, star anise, oak, leather, spice and pleasing warmth.
James Russell-Grant | Mr.Wheeler | Sept.2025