The 2016 Chateau L’if is a Bordeaux Blend from the esteemed Saint Emilion sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This wine, produced by Chateau L’if, is notable for being crafted entirely from Merlot, a characteristic that sets it apart in the Bordeaux landscape. Bottled with a cork closure and boasting an alcohol content of 14.5%, this wine has garnered significant praise from several respected wine reviewers.
James Suckling awarded the 2016 Chateau L’if an impressive score of 98, describing it as "a compact cylinder of ripe and fresh fruit with currant, fresh-herb and dry-earth character on the palate. So solid. Full-bodied yet refined and checked in every way. Well-defined, formed and perfect." Suckling advises patience, suggesting this wine will reach its peak after 2026.
Vinous, represented by Antonio Galloni, gave this wine a score of 96+, noting that it will require several years to reach its full potential. Galloni emphasizes that the wine's initial allure has evolved into a structure marked by "prominent yet well-balanced tannins," suggesting a strong, distinctive personality. Galloni recommends drinking between 2024 and 2041.
Decanter also praised the wine, awarding it a score of 94. Their review highlights the wine's "deft ripple of acidity" and "soft, ripe damson fruits," noting the seductive quality expected from a wine associated with the Le Pin stable. Decanter also mentions that the wine was aged in 50% new oak and suggests a drinking window from 2025 to 2040.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate also rated the wine 94, with Lisa Perrotti-Brown describing it as "medium to deep garnet-purple colored" and "a little shy to begin, opening out to show a beautiful red and black plums, kirsch and rose-laced personality." The review praises the wine's ripe, satiny tannins and the fresh, elegant fruit flavors that persist through a long finish.
Jeff Leve of The Wine Cellar Insider awarded the wine a 97, emphasizing its "purity, sensuality, length, and opulence." Leve notes the wine’s full-bodied nature and concentrated flavors, highlighting the plum and cherry core that expands on the palate and in the long finish.
Wine Spectator also weighed in, giving the wine a score of 93 and noting its "beam of cassis and blackberry puree flavors," supported by racy acidity and accented with anise and singed juniper. The publication suggests a drinking window extending to 2033 and mentions that only 500 cases were made.
In summary, the 2016 Chateau L’if stands out as a well-regarded wine with high scores across the board. Its unique 100% Merlot composition, combined with well-balanced tannins, fresh acidity, and complex fruit flavors, make it a wine worth cellaring for future enjoyment.