The 2016 La Gaffeliere is a Bordeaux blend primarily composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. Produced in the Saint-Émilion sub-region of Bordeaux, France, this red wine is notable for its 14.28% alcohol content and traditional cork closure. The wine has garnered high praise across multiple professional reviewers, underscoring its quality and potential.
James Suckling awards the wine a score of 96, describing it as "really decadent and rich with great aromas of earth, spice, frost flowers, and fresh mushrooms." He notes its "full body, firm and chewy tannins, and a flavorful finish," recommending it be tried after 2025 (jamessuckling.com, 2/4/2019).
Vinous also gives the 2016 La Gaffeliere a score of 96, highlighting its vivid and precise character with "layers of nuance." Antonio Galloni appreciates the "blood orange, lavender, rose petal, and mint" that add brightness, calling it an "irresistibly captivating Saint-Émilion." He mentions that the Cabernet Franc in the blend contributes significantly to the wine’s character and complexity, suggesting a drinking window between 2024 and 2051 (Vinous, 1/2/2019).
Wine Spectator provides a slightly lower but still impressive score of 94. The publication describes the wine as having a “suave, cashmere feel, with waves of blackberry and plum reduction, infused liberally with dark tobacco and black licorice notes." They predict it will age into a charmer, recommending it be enjoyed between 2022 and 2037 (Wine Spectator, 1/16/2019).
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate gives the wine a score of 95+, with Lisa Perrotti-Brown praising its "wild blueberries, freshly crushed plums and kirsch scents plus hints of garrigue, underbrush, rose hip tea, and pencil lead." She describes the palate as "wonderfully elegant with a soft, velvety texture and seamless freshness" (Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 12/1/2018).
Wine Enthusiast offers the highest score of 97, calling it a "warm wine rich in tannins and with succulent berry fruits." The review mentions its "powerful and elegant" nature, with density that doesn't detract from its fruitiness, balancing well with its aging potential. They suggest drinking it from 2025 (Wine Enthusiast, 5/1/2019).
Decanter, awarding a score of 96, mentions the wine was "delicious En Primeur and is even better now with three years under its belt." They highlight its "rich, intense dark fruits," grip, and supple tannins, suggesting it will deliver over the next few decades (Decanter, 3/22/2019).
Overall, the 2016 La Gaffeliere is recognized for its complexity, depth, and aging potential, making it a standout choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.