Chateau Monbousquet is a Saint-Emilion wine estate dating back to 1540. The estate prospered and achieved great fame during the second half of the 19th century under the brief but inspired direction of Comte de Vassal-Montviel. He enlarged the vineyard, bringing it to its present size and making it one of the largest estates in Saint-Emilion.

The arrival of Chantal and Gerard Perse in 1993 started a new chapter in the chateau’s story, ushering in a veritable “leap in quality”. Production standards were completely revised both in the vineyards and in the cellars, with state-of-the-art installations suitable for producing a great wine. Gerard Perse also planted the first white vines in Saint-Emilion. His efforts paid off and in 2006 Monbousquet was promoted to the rank of a Grand Cru Classe.

The estate includes 32 hectares of vines planted with Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon on warm, deep gravel soils to the south and sandy-clay soils to the north. The average age of the vines is 38 years. Three wines are produced on the estate: two red wines, the main wine Monbousquet and the second wine Angelique de Monbousquet, and a white wine, Monbousquet Blanc, from the small parcel of white wine grapes.

The grand vin of Monbousquet is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is rich, has great complexity and aromas of ripe fruit.

The 2016 Monbousquet is a Bordeaux blend that hails from the esteemed region of Saint Emilion in France. Dressed in a vibrant robe of deep purple-black, it captivates the palate with an intriguing combination of rich plum preserves, Black Forest cake, and mocha. The subtle undertones of redcurrant jelly, hoisin, and cardamom add an extra layer of complexity to this full-bodied wine.

Despite its robust structure, the 2016 Monbousquet displays a compelling minerality that effortlessly restrains the intense red and black fruit flavors. The plush tannins provide a velvety backdrop to the wine's lively finish, while the 14.5% alcohol content ensures a warmth that lingers on the palate.

There's an exotic quality to this wine, highlighted by notes of blackberry, fig, and boysenberry. The inlaid threads of graphite and tobacco provide structure, while an unexpected swirl of Lapsang souchong tea lends an oriental twist to the finish. These characteristics make the 2016 Monbousquet a wine of distinct personality and charm.

The wine's silky texture is reminiscent of crushed cherries and berries, offering a beautiful length that makes it hard to resist. But the real magic of this wine unfolds as it ages, so it's best to wait until 2024 to truly appreciate its splendor.

The 2016 Monbousquet is a testimony to the winemaking talent at Monbousquet. This wine is a symphony of flavors that promises to offer pleasure today and 15 years down the line. Its smoky character, accompanied by a touch of spice and toast, gives it a distinctive finish that remains etched in memory. Indeed, the 2016 Monbousquet is a wine that commands respect and admiration, a true gem from the vineyards of Bordeaux.