The 2016 Sanctus Bordeaux Blend is a red wine from the Saint Emilion sub-region of Bordeaux, France. This wine is produced by Sanctus and is composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. It has an alcohol content of 14.0% and is sealed with a cork.
Professional reviewers have given this wine high praise, with scores consistently in the 90s. Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com awarded it a 93, noting its "truffle, smoke, licorice, espresso, flowers and ripe plums" aromas which he described as "a turn-on." He highlighted its "silky, soft and polished" mouthfeel and the "sweetness to the fresh, red cherry filled finish."
Jeb Dunnuck also rated the 2016 Sanctus a 93. He pointed out that the wine is "a selection from 4 hectares of more limestone soils" and spent "12 months in 40% new barrels." Dunnuck described the wine as having a "ruby/purple color" with "smoking good notes of crème de cassis, toasted spice, classy oak, and violets." He added that it is "medium to full-bodied" with "a seamless, focused texture, good concentration, and a great finish."
James Suckling echoed these sentiments, giving another 93 score. He called it "a vibrant and attractive St.-Emilion" with a "red-fruit core" framed by "vibrant and crisp tannins." Suckling highlighted its "fresh, long and upbeat flavors" and advised to "try from 2022."
Antonio Galloni from Vinous also scored it a 93, mentioning that it "is going to need a few years to soften, as the tannins are quite firm today." He praised its "terrific poise and energy" and noted flavors of "dark red cherry, mocha, espresso, dried flowers and licorice."
Lastly, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated it slightly lower at 91 but still praised the wine for its "deep garnet-purple" color and a "broody, reticent nose" that opens up to "warm blackberries, black raspberries and Black Forest cake notions." The palate was described as "chock-full of black berries and earthy layers with a solid, grainy frame and a long, toasty finish."
Overall, the 2016 Sanctus stands out for its complexity, vibrant flavors, and aging potential, making it a strong choice for Bordeaux enthusiasts.