# Château Belgrave (2016)

- **Producer:** Vignobles Dourthe
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon 69%, Merlot 28%, Petit Verdot 3%
- **Region:** Haut-Médoc, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €43
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, black cherry, liquorice, cedar, vanilla, smoke, chocolate, earth, tobacco, leather

## About this wine

Château Belgrave is a distinguished red wine from the Haut-Médoc appellation in Bordeaux, France, produced by Vignobles Dourthe. Classified as a 5th Grand Cru Classé in 1855, the estate benefits from its prime location bordering Saint-Julien and its classic gravelly soils, which are particularly suited for its dominant grape, Cabernet Sauvignon. Vignobles Dourthe, with a legacy dating back to 1840, has managed the property since 1979, investing to express the full potential of this terroir. The 2016 vintage is celebrated as an exceptional year for the château, receiving high praise from critics for its quality and aging potential.

## Interesting facts

- Classified as a 5th Growth (Cinquième Cru) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification.
- The vineyard is planted on gravel hillocks, a prime terroir for Cabernet Sauvignon.
- The estate holds Terra Vitis and High Environmental Value (HVE) certifications.
- James Suckling rated the 2016 vintage as the best since 1989 for Château Belgrave.

## Food pairing

The wine's high tannins and full body are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game, breaking down proteins and cleansing the palate. Its ample acidity cuts through fatty elements, while the dark fruit notes can echo or contrast with savory dishes.

## Wine making process

The 2016 Château Belgrave was produced using grapes from 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot. The vineyard, planted on deep gravel over clay, spans 59 hectares. Winemaking focused on moderate extraction via pumping over to achieve sweetness and subtlety. The wine was aged for 12 months in oak barrels, 34% new, and matured on fine lees. The harvest occurred from late September to mid-October. The estate adheres to sustainable practices, holding Terra Vitis and HVE certifications.