2017 Cadet Bon
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Cadet-Bon shows a more powerful, earthy side of Saint-Émilion. Black cherry, plum, leather, licorice, smoke, grilled herbs, espresso and menthol build in a potent, virile Saint-Émilion endowed with quite a bit of depth. Although not especially refined, the 2017 has plenty to offer. Time in the glass really brings out the Franc character, especially in the aromatics. Tasted two times.
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Average Score
Neal Martin
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
A blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc, the 2017 Cadet-Bon is medium to deep garnet-purple in color. It delivers a wonderfully savory nose of tapenade, charcuterie and bouquet garni over a core of Black Forest cake, Morello cherries and boysenberries plus a touch of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has great presence and poise, with a firm, grainy frame and bold freshness lifting the black fruits to a long finish.
The 2017 Cadet-Bon feels rather overripe on the nose with smudged prune tinged red fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with smeared red fruit, moderate depth but to be frank, it lacks real excitement on the finish.
Deep ruby-colored, the 2017 Chateau Cadet-Bon comes from the talented Stephane Derenoncourt team and is 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc brought up in one-third new French oak. It offers a complex, classic style that's common in the vintage. Red and black berry fruits, dried herbs/tobacco, spice, and forest floor notes all give way to a medium-bodied wine that has plenty of fruit, nicely integrated acidity, and a clean, classy finish. Drink it over the coming decade. Tasted twice.