2016 Dalem

Deep plum purple-colored, the 2016 Château Dalem is another terrific vintage for this cuvée, which comes from an 18-hectare vineyard in Fronsac. Crème de cassis, classic oak, violets, and hints of graphite all emerge from this incredibly classy, balanced, seamless Fronsac that's up with the finest of the vintage. Beautifully balanced and layered, those that are oak adverse should give bottles 2-3 years in the cellar. It should keep for 10-15+ years. The 2016 is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in 40% new French oak.

The 2016 Dalem has an intense bouquet of well-defined black cherry, raspberry coulis and marmalade aromas. The palate is well balanced with juicy ripe black fruit, a fine bead of acidity, plenty of freshness and fine attack on the finish. This is an excellent Dalem and comes recommended. Fronsac at its best.

There’s purity and focus to this Fronsac with blackberry and blueberry aromas and flavors. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Precise and pretty. A blend of 90 per cent merlot and ten per cent cabernet franc. Drink from 2022.