Chateau Cantemerle, 1996 Red Wine
New
Haut-Medoc
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Price:
£59.95
Description
Château Cantemerle, 1996
Haut-Médoc – Fifth Growth (Grand Cru Classé 1855)
The 1996 vintage in the Médoc is widely regarded as one of the finest of the decade for the Left Bank, producing wines of structure, definition and excellent ageing potential. Château Cantemerle, classified as a Fifth Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, is known for its elegance and consistency, often delivering wines that combine classical Cabernet structure with refinement and balance.
Situated in the southern Haut-Médoc, Cantemerle benefits from gravelly soils that favour Cabernet Sauvignon, contributing to the vintage’s firm backbone and longevity.
Tasting Notes:
Now deep garnet with brick hues beginning to show at the rim, the nose is mature and classically Médocain. Aromas of blackcurrant, cedar and graphite are layered with notes of tobacco leaf, dried herbs and subtle spice. With time in the glass, hints of leather and forest floor emerge. On the palate it is medium to full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a composed structure. Flavours of dark berries, cassis and gentle oak unfold steadily, leading to a long, dry and elegant finish.
Serving & Food Pairing:
Best served at cellar temperature and decanted briefly to allow the aromatics to open. A fine partner to roast beef, lamb or game dishes, as well as mature hard cheeses.
Summary:
A classic expression of the 1996 Left Bank vintage, Château Cantemerle offers structure, balance and traditional Médoc character — a refined and age-worthy Haut-Médoc from a respected Fifth Growth estate.
About Château Cantemerle Chateau Cantemerle is an esteemed wine estate situated in the Haut-Médoc appellation of Bordeaux, France. With a history dating back to the 12th century, the estate is one of the oldest in the region and holds the distinction of being classified as a Fifth Growth (Cinquième Cru) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Encompassing approximately 90 hectares, the vineyard benefits from gravelly and clay-limestone soils, ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes. Château Cantemerle's wines are celebrated for their elegance, finesse, and longevity, exhibiting vibrant fruit flavors, refined tannins, and a sense of terroir. Under the stewardship of the SMA Group, the estate combines traditional winemaking practices with modern techniques, maintaining its reputation as a benchmark of quality and consistency within the Haut-Médoc appellation.
Condition
Level top shoulder, label lightly bin-soiled.