The 2016 Bellevue Bordeaux Blend from the prestigious Saint Emilion region in Bordeaux, France is a wine that truly embodies elegance and finesse. With its medium to deep garnet-purple color, this wine is visually captivating, enticing you to delve into its complex depths.
On the nose, the 2016 Bellevue immediately captivates with its enthusiastic aromas of crushed red and black plums, kirsch, ripe blackberries, and rose petals. These vibrant fruit notes are complemented by subtle hints of yeast extract, black olives, aniseed, and cinnamon toast, adding layers of complexity to the bouquet.
This wine is made from 100% Merlot grapes, sourced from clay and limestone soils, which contribute to its remarkable structure and depth. On the palate, the Bellevue impresses with a solid frame of ripe, grainy tannins, giving it a sturdy and robust structure. The densely packed, multilayered fruit flavors are lifted by oodles of freshness, creating a harmonious balance.
Renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awards this wine an impressive score of 94+, praising its solid frame and long finish. James Suckling, another esteemed critic, rates it even higher with a score of 97, describing it as a dense and layered red with fantastic fruit and velvety tannins. Wine Spectator also applauds the 2016 Bellevue, giving it a score of 93, calling it a lush and inviting example with a delicious, fruit-driven character.
The 2016 Bellevue is a wine that promises great aging potential. It is recommended to cellar this wine for a few years to fully appreciate its potential. However, if you can't resist the temptation, it can also be enjoyed now, especially with decanting. This wine is a true gem from the Saint Emilion region and is sure to delight any wine enthusiast.