Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste, 2016 Red Wine
Pauillac 5me Cru Classe
New Bordeaux arrivals
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Price:
$128.14 USD
Description
The 2016 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is an exceptional wine from a stellar vintage in Bordeaux, especially in the Pauillac appellation. The 2016 vintage is widely regarded as one of the finest in recent years due to a combination of perfect ripening conditions and the resulting wines that balance power, elegance, and age-worthiness. Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a Fifth Growth (Cinquième Cru) in the 1855 classification, but it consistently outperforms its ranking, particularly in great years like 2016.
TAsting notes about the 2016 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste: Typically dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (about 75-80%), with Merlot making up the balance (around 20-25%). In 2016, the higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon benefited from the dry, sunny growing season. Aroma: Rich and aromatic, offering a classic Pauillac nose of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry, accompanied by layers of cedar, graphite, tobacco, and crushed stone. Hints of licorice, violets, and cocoa add to its complexity. Palate: Full-bodied and structured, with finely polished tannins that give the wine a firm yet elegant backbone. The 2016 vintage is characterized by its remarkable balance between ripe, concentrated fruit (blackcurrant, cassis, plum) and savory, earthy elements (cedar, leather, graphite). The acidity is vibrant, providing freshness and lift to the wine, while the tannins are present but refined, suggesting excellent aging potential.
Finish: Long, complex, and mineral-driven, with lingering notes of dark fruit, tobacco, and a touch of spice.
Aging Potential: The 2016 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is built to age for 20-30 years or more. While it is already approachable with decanting, the wine will continue to develop further complexity over time, with tertiary notes such as leather, cigar box, and dried fruit emerging after 10-15 years.
Optimal Drinking: Best enjoyed from around 2025-2045, though it is possible to drink now with decanting for several hours to soften the youthful tannins.
Food Pairing: Ideal pairings include classic Bordeaux matches such as grilled or roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, and game meats (like venison or duck). The wine’s structured tannins and savory character also pair well with mushroom-based dishes, hearty stews, and firm cheeses such as aged Comté or Gruyère.
The 2016 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a standout wine from an iconic Pauillac estate, showcasing both the richness and precision that this vintage is known for. Its powerful structure and elegant balance make it a wine worth aging, though with proper preparation, it can also be enjoyed now.
Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, located in the Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux, France, is celebrated for its distinguished history and exceptional red wines. With a heritage dating back to the 16th century, the estate's vineyards span approximately 55 hectares, predominantly planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes. Benefiting from gravelly and sandy soils, Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste crafts wines that epitomize the elegance and complexity of Pauillac terroir. Known for their depth, structure, and aging potential, the estate's wines showcase ripe fruit flavors, refined tannins, and a distinct Pauillac character. Classified as a Fifth Growth (Cinquième Cru) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste has continuously upheld its reputation for excellence. With a commitment to tradition, innovation, and sustainability, the estate remains a respected name in Bordeaux winemaking, captivating enthusiasts worldwide with its distinguished blends.
Condition
excellent