2016 Chateau Cote de Baleau Saint Emilion Grand Cru

Located in the village of Saint-Emilion, Cte de Baleau was founded in 1643. The Cuvelier family, owner of Clos Fourtet (First Grand Cru Class of Saint-Emilion) and Chateau Poujeaux (AOC Moulis en Mdoc), acquired Les Grandes Murailles (2 ha adjoining Clos Fourtet) and Cte de Baleau (18 ha of which 15 ha are classified). They also took stake in Le Clos Saint-Martin (1.3 ha), of which Sophie Fourcade (former director and co-owner of the three estates) remains the majority shareholder.

Critical Acclaim

92 James Suckling

This has good intensity with dark berry and plum aromas, as well as alluringly spicy oak influence. Theres a dense and juicy core of very attractive, concentrated red plums and berries, framed in well-judged tannins. Try from 2022.

92 Jeb Dunnuck

Made with consulting advice from Michel Rollands team, the 2016 Chteau Cote de Baleau is a plump, sexy, fruit-loaded beauty that gives up tons of ripe black fruits, charred meat, and earthy, herbal aromas and flavors. Textured, upfront, and ready to go, drink it any time over the coming decade or so.

90 Wine Spectator

This has a fun, juicy feel, with waves of plum sauce, raspberry puree and cherry preserves running through, while singed vanilla and red licorice notes wrap up the finish. It’s a fruit-friendly style but has enough grip to stay honest. Best from 2021 through 2031.