{"title":"Saint-Émilion Wine Collection","description":"\u003cp\u003eSaint-Émilion is the intellectual heart of Bordeaux’s Right Bank—where limestone plateaus, ancient vineyard walls, and centuries of winemaking tradition converge into some of the world’s most expressive Merlot-based wines. This is a region defined by texture and perfume rather than brute force: silk over structure, aromatics over austerity, finesse over excess.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"somm2402-chg16montse-750","title":"2016 Château Haut-Goujon, Montagne Saint-Émilion","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eBordeaux, as a region writ large, makes a ton of wine (some would argue too much), which is why we often taste dozens and dozens of bottles before finding one or two “winners.” That’s precisely why we were so thrilled when today’s discovery from Château Haut-Goujon hit the table. An excellent, highly rated vintage with close to a decade of bottle age? Check. A wine that is clearly in the midst of its optimal drinking window, showing a full range of aromatic complexity, and a rich, silky texture with soft tannins and integrated oak spice? Check. And an outrageously reasonable price, too? Check, check, check! It has the “must buy” Bordeaux trifecta, and on top of that it comes from a small, traditional, family owned and operated estate in one of the Right Bank’s best terroirs for old-school value, Montagne Saint-Émilion. And we do mean value!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWhen it comes to the glitz and glamor that Bordeaux is now famous for, the Left Bank reigns supreme, with a truly impressive line up of palatial \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003echâteaux\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e and all the pomp and circumstance one could ask for. But, when it comes to viticultural history and special terroir that goes back millenia, it is the Right Bank that takes the cake. It is here, on hills and plateaus that surround the famous villages of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, that ancient Romans first planted vines many centuries before the Dutch helped the Bordelais drain the swamps and plant on the other side of the Gironde river. To put it more simply, the Right Bank had the best terroir for making wine, and arguably still does. If stretch limos and celebrity sightings are what you want, then head for Pauillac and Margaux, but from a “best wine for your buck in the bottle” viewpoint, the villages around Saint-Émilion should be the top destination.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eChâteau Haut-Goujon sits almost at the border of two of the most well-known, and top-performing, “satellite” appellations: Lalande de Pomerol and Montagne Saint-Émilion. Just a couple of miles northwest of Saint-Émilion proper, these appellations have extraordinarily similar terroir, with the only main difference being that they have less limestone, which makes them ready to drink earlier. The 2016 Haut-Goujon, at eight years of age, is in a perfect, prime drinking window. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eMickaël Garde is the fourth generation to lead this small estate, which his great–grandfather founded in 1912. It has been in the same family the entire time, something that is increasingly rare in Bordeaux. Farming is certified sustainable, and work in the cellar is \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003etrès classique\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e, with fermentation and aging in a combination of concrete vats and new oak barrels. Serve this throwback Merlot\/Cabernet blend in a nice Bordeaux stem at a cool 60 degrees. Though it is ready to go, a brief decant will open up the full aromatic array of ripe plums, black currants, violets, cedar, mint, leather, graphite, vanilla bean, and cigar box. It’s got tons of youthful fruit, a rich yet balanced texture, and a meaty, iodine-inflected finish. Even more complexity and tertiary flavors will emerge as it ages gracefully for the next five to 10 years. In other words, this is the complete Bordeaux package…time to stock the cellar!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SommSelect","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41926492356662,"sku":"SOMM2402-CHG16MONTSE-750","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/2016ChateauHaut-Goujon_MontagneSaint-Emilion_MainImage-1800x1800.jpg?v=1706710567"},{"product_id":"2016-chateau-troplong-mondot-6-bottle-owc","title":"2016 Château Troplong Mondot 6-Bottle Case OWC","description":"\u003ch2 class=\"mb-3 mt-3 text-3xl font-normal first:mt-3\"\u003e2016 Château Troplong Mondot 6-Bottle Case OWC -  Saint-Émilion Excellence\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExperience the exceptional 2016 vintage from Château Troplong Mondot, presented in a 6-bottle Original Wooden Case (OWC).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/chateau_troplong_mondot.png?v=1765181391\" alt=\"Château Troplong Mondot\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eThe Wine - Château Troplong Mondot, Saint-Émilion\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"marker:text-textOff list-disc pl-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eClassification: Premier Grand Cru Classé B\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVintage: 2016\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBlend: 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCritics Scores: 97-99 points\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003e2016 Vintage Characteristics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"marker:text-textOff list-disc pl-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExceptional terroir expression\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRich, concentrated fruit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRefined tannin structure\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eImpressive aging potential\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eTasting Profile\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2016 Château Troplong Mondot reveals:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"marker:text-textOff list-disc pl-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDeep garnet-purple color\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAromas of dark plums, blackberries, and licorice\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNotes of coffee, spice, and chocolate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFull-bodied with incredible concentration\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCreamy, dense tannins\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLong, precise finish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eExpert Perspectives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eJeb Dunnuck (97 points)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Certainly one of the most flamboyant and opulent wines in the vintage, yet it remains perfectly balanced, with masses of polished tannins, no hard edges, and a fabulous finish.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eThe Wine Cellar Insider\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"The lingering finish displays sweet, red, and black fruits, a salted, orange citrus tone, and a beautiful chalky character on the backend.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eImpeccable Provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis case comes with a guaranteed and traceable history:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"marker:text-textOff list-disc pl-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAcquired Ex Chateau En Primeur in 2017\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReleased between June 2018 and March 2019\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInitially stored at Dartess in Bordeaux\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTransferred to London City Bond in February 2020\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaintained in its original wooden case, undisturbed\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eExclusive Bonus\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach purchase includes an additional 750ml bottle of 2016 Carmes de Rieussec.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eServing Recommendation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"marker:text-textOff list-disc pl-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimal drinking window: 2027-2060\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDecant 2-3 hours before serving\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3\"\u003eAuthenticity Guaranteed\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePerfect provenance, with complete traceability and optimal storage conditions. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mt-md block\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA rare opportunity to own a piece of Bordeaux history, perfectly capturing the exceptional 2016 vintage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis 6-bottle OWC of 2016 Château Troplong Mondot offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Saint-Émilion's finest expressions from an outstanding vintage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2-Day Shipping Included\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComplimentary 2-Day Air carrier service (for the wine) to any location in the contiguous US and Alaska\/Hawaii is included in the price of this purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDiscount Policy Disclaimer\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note that this product is \u003cstrong\u003enot eligible for discounts\u003c\/strong\u003e. Any orders placed with a discount code or promotional offer applied will not be processed. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor any questions regarding our pricing policy, please contact our support team.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/troplong-winery_1f48627e-cdca-4549-90ed-02caeb87d551.png?v=1765181482\" alt=\"Château Troplong Mondot\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SommSelect","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43358393073718,"sku":"AT3B","price":1135.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/Cht-Troplong-Bottle-wine.png?v=1768239602"},{"product_id":"2015-ch-teau-barde-haut-saint-emilion-grand-crusomm2507-bdht15seml-750","title":"2015 Château Barde-Haut, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere’s no shortage of consistent producers in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSaint-Émilion\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, but when it comes to finding top-tier wines \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunder triple digits, the list narrows quickly.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e That’s why \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChâteau Barde-Haut stands out\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Known for its richly endowed and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eseductive style on release\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, this estate also delivers r\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eemarkable aging potential\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e—as evidenced by this \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003epristine library release of the 2015 vintage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is an \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEx-Château acquisition\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, meaning \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eperfect provenance and bottle condition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e flawless labels, ideal neck fills, and the kind of presentation that looks freshly pulled from the estate’s cellar. The wine itself—a classic Right Bank blend of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e—is \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003edrinking beautifully\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e after a 30–60 minute decant. But the real clincher is the price: just $\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e59 per bottle, or $54 when you purchase three or more.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBordeaux insiders and critics often place Barde-Haut in the “modern camp” for its opulence and concentration, yet it retains the minerality and balance that allow it to age gracefully alongside the traditional producers of Saint-Émilion. The estate’s saving grace is its terroir. Located on the Saint-Christophe limestone plateau, B\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003earde-Haut shares the same elevated, mineral-rich soils as its prestigious neighbors—Château Troplong Mondot and Château Pavie Macquin\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e—both less than a mile away. These estates are known for crafting powerful wines with a mineral cut on the finish, and B\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003earde-Haut delivers that same profile at a fraction of the cost.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2015 vintage is a savvy buy for collectors looking to enjoy a Right Bank gem while their newer investments mature.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e It’s nearly impossible to find Troplong Mondot or Pavie Macquin 2015 for under $100, and with tariffs in place, retail prices often exceed $150. Compare that to Napa Cabs from the same vintage, which can easily surpass $200, and Barde-Haut begins to look like a steal—especially considering how it outperforms many of those bottles in complexity and finesse.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiven all the upside, we strongly recommend securing a 3- or 6-pack to enjoy over the next five years. Santé!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePress Accolades:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e96 Points, Jeb Dunnuck: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn awesome Saint Emilion, the 2015 Château Barde-Haut showed even better on this occasion than on release. A huge nose of sweet crème de cassis, jammy blackberries, violets, leather, and dried herbs gives way to a full-bodied wine that has a great mid-palate, ripe, silky tannins, not a hard edge to be found, and a great, great finish. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e95 Points, James Suckling: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAromas of blackberries, blueberries, wet earth and black tea. Full-bodied, dense and layered with medium, chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows focus and power.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SommSelect","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43811805921334,"sku":"SOMM2507-BDHT15SEML-750","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/2015ChateauBardeHaut_Saint-EmilionGrand_MainImage-1800x1800.jpg?v=1752604960"},{"product_id":"2016-chateau-saint-martial-saint-emilion-grand-crusomm2601-csm16sem-750","title":"2016 Château Saint Martial, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"177\" data-end=\"756\"\u003eChâteau Saint Martial is one of those Saint-Émilion estates that never needed to announce itself. A tiny, family-owned Grand Cru property farming just 3.7 hectares, it has remained rooted on the same land since 1792—quietly, stubbornly, and without interruption. The estate itself reaches back even further, to the 1500s, when it was home to the Saint Martial Chapel and a natural spring believed to cure illness. Pilgrims once traveled from far afield simply to drink its water, drawn by the land’s reputation for restoration long before wine markets or classifications existed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"758\" data-end=\"1353\"\u003eThat same spring still flows today, and the estate retains the same sense of restraint that has always defined it. Old Merlot and Cabernet Franc vines—now more than 50 years of age—are organically farmed on classic Saint-Émilion limestone and gravel. Production is intentionally minuscule, handled with minimal intervention from vineyard to cellar. Bottles are quietly held back in the château’s centuries-old cellar and released sparingly, largely within France. The result is a Grand Cru that has stayed under the radar not because it lacks pedigree, but because it has never chased attention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1382\"\u003eWhy You’ll Love It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1383\" data-end=\"1720\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1383\" data-end=\"1492\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1385\" data-end=\"1492\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1385\" data-end=\"1414\"\u003eTrue Grand Cru provenance\u003c\/strong\u003e from a historic Saint-Émilion estate with over four centuries of continuity\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1493\" data-end=\"1603\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1495\" data-end=\"1603\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1495\" data-end=\"1536\"\u003eFully mature 2016 Right Bank Bordeaux\u003c\/strong\u003e, showing depth, balance, and composure without needing more time\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1604\" data-end=\"1720\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1606\" data-end=\"1720\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1606\" data-end=\"1629\"\u003eExtraordinary value\u003c\/strong\u003e, offering serious Grand Cru quality at a price that no longer exists for wines like this\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1727\" data-end=\"1746\"\u003eHow to Serve It\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1747\" data-end=\"2008\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1747\" data-end=\"1824\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1749\" data-end=\"1824\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1749\" data-end=\"1777\"\u003eDecant for 30–45 minutes\u003c\/strong\u003e to let the savory, mineral layers fully open\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1825\" data-end=\"1906\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1827\" data-end=\"1906\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1827\" data-end=\"1850\"\u003eServe slightly cool\u003c\/strong\u003e, around 60–62°F, to highlight freshness and structure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1907\" data-end=\"2008\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1909\" data-end=\"2008\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1909\" data-end=\"1935\"\u003ePair with classic fare\u003c\/strong\u003e—roast lamb, duck, ribeye, or simply a quiet evening and a proper glass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"SommSelect","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44652198854710,"sku":"SOMM2601-CSM16SEM-750","price":42.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/2016_Chateau_Saint_Martial_Saint-Emilion_Grand_Cru_1_0610e17c-def9-4b0e-b075-2a3348ecee94.png?v=1767374842"},{"product_id":"2016-ch-teau-fleur-cardinale-saint-milion-grand-crusomm2605-flcrd16seml-750","title":"2016 Château Fleur Cardinale, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2016 Château Fleur Cardinale\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is the definitive bridge for the Napa Cabernet lover looking to cross over into elite Bordeaux. During a comprehensive 15-vintage vertical tasting, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJane Anson\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, then the Bordeaux correspondent for \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDecanter magazine\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, singled out the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2016 as the estate's absolute star, awarding it 95 points.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e She praised its \"plump, well-ripened fruit\" and distinct slate-like finish that provides a mineral counterbalance to its natural richness. Since its \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003epromotion to Grand Cru Classé status in 2006,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e this property—located on a cool clay-limestone plateau next door to Valandraud—has \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eevolved into a high-precision powerhouse.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere is no better time to assess a top-tier vintage than at the 10-year mark,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and with eight years of bottle maturation, this 2016 has\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e hit a perfect \"sweet spot\" of drinkability.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e While elite Saint-Émilion often demands triple-digit investment, this wine represents a turning point toward ultimate refinement without the massive price tag. It captures the v\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eoluptuous style the estate is known for, balanced by the 2016 hallmark of vibrant freshness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e It is a wine of the highest order, successfully bridging the gap between traditional French structure and modern, fruit-forward pleasure.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA blend of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e the wine pours a deep purple with aromas of black cherries, violets, and graphite. On the palate, it is incredibly supple, coating the mouth with ripe fruit extract that feels weightless thanks to a streak of limestone minerality. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe SommSelect team tasted this twice with Bordeaux Négociants at Wine Paris, and it was a standout within its price point. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is the wine to enjoy without hesitation while your Ausones, Cheval Blancs, and Pavies are slumbering in the cellar—a\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e textbook example of high-caliber luxury that is dark, velvety, and brilliantly fresh.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSanté! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCritical Acclaim:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/decanter_logo_240x240.png?v=1769834034\" alt=\"Decanter Magazine Logo\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e95  Points, Decanter:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e“Plump, well-ripened but mellow fruit from the first nose. Touches of violet florality also as the Cabernet Franc takes the lead, and again the minerality is emphasised with a slate texture on the finish which does a brilliant job of counterbalancing the generous ripeness of the fruit. Crushed mint, liquorice, bitter chocolate on the finish also, this is gourmet and easy to love. Still has an austerity at this point – it needs another few years to really soften. These are lovely wines full of confidence and pleasure with their own distinct personality. 100% new oak.” - Jane Anson, MW - Sept. 2019\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/jeb_dunnuck_240x240.png?v=1769834039\" alt=\"Jeb Dunnuck Wine Logo\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e95 Points, Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“A blend of 74% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Château Fleur Cardinale spent 14 months in new French oak. Deep ruby\/purple-colored, with a stunning nose of smoked black fruits, classy oak, violets, and camphor, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, beautiful purity, ripe, present, polished tannins, and a great finish. It's a beautiful wine from this tip-top estate that has the class to keep for two decades or more.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/jackes_suckling_240x240.png?v=1769834026\" alt=\"James Suckling Wine Logo\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e94 Points, James Suckling:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“Quite earthy and savory on the nose, the fruit only emerging slowly. However, on the palate, this has a very attractive fleshy quality and a moderately dry, long finish of some real sophistication. Easy to drink now, but will hold. A blend of 74 per cent merlot, 18 per cent cabernet franc and eight per cent cabernet sauvignon.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/Chateau_Fleur_Cardinale.jpg?v=1778563132\" alt=\"Château Fleur Cardinale\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb id=\"docs-internal-guid-62f1c080-7fff-5a76-27fa-27ebdb431b85\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SommSelect","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45536545112118,"sku":"SOMM2605-FLCRD16SEML-750","price":78.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/2016ChateauFleurCardinale_Saint-EmilionGrandCru.png?v=1777921252"},{"product_id":"2010-chateau-la-gaffeliere-saint-emilion-grand-cru-premier-grand-cru-classe","title":"2010 Château La Gaffelière, Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe are thrilled to offer our select members an exclusive, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003edirect ex-Château allocation of a true Right Bank masterpiece: the spectacular 2010 Château La Gaffelière. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis historic estate commands elite Premier Grand Cru Classé status, sitting on the same coveted, south-facing clay-limestone slopes as its\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e iconic neighbors, Ausone and Cheval Blanc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. For collectors, the 2010 vintage needs no introduction—it is a towering benchmark for the region. What makes this offer truly special, however, is where the wine is today. A\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003et 16 years of age, it has reached that magical, seductive sweet spot\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e where Right Bank Merlot and Cabernet Franc shed their youthful, muscular frame to reveal a breathtaking harmony of power, fluid elegance, and deep complexity. This is \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eelite Bordeaux provenance, drinking at its absolute peak, for a fraction of what you would pay for its neighbors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specific parcel boasts immaculate fill levels and flawless condition, having been professionally stored at the domain in a strictly temperature-controlled environment since bottling.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The legendary 2010 vintage garnered immense praise from the world's top critics, including an impressive \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e97 points from James Suckling and a 95+ from Neal Martin.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e In a recent retrospective tasting, critic Lisa Perrotti-Brown awarded it a glowing 95 points, noting how beautifully the wine has evolved over time—a reflection of an epic, benchmark year across Bordeaux.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWith 16 years of patient cellaring handled for you, this 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc blend has entered a gorgeous window of sheer, supple wonder. The structure has softened into an effortlessly fluid, silk-textured harmony where elegance meets power, masterfully integrated yet vibrant with fruit and energy. While it is at a magnificent juncture to decant and enjoy today, its flawless ex-château provenance ensures it has a long life ahead, built to thrive easily for another decade. We highly encourage securing multiple bottles to experience this liquid luxury now and chart its fascinating course over the years to come.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCritical Acclaim:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/jackes_suckling_240x240.png?v=1769834026\" alt=\"James Suckling Wine Logo\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e97 Points, James Suckling: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“This takes the power of the vintage and puts it in its pocket for later, preferring instead to let mouthwatering briar, loganberry, mulberry and blackberry fruit strut its way forward, enlivened with roasted wood spice and supported by suavely but thoroughly embedded iron-tinged structure. Should cruise for two decades. Best from 2016 through 2035.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/wine_spectator_240x240.png?v=1769834039\" alt=\"Wine Spectator Magazine\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e96 Points, Wine Spectator:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“ … offers up impressive levels of red, blue and black fruits as well as some toasty oak and crushed rock, giving it minerality. Of course, the acidity in this vintage, with its lower pHs than 2009, provide a freshness and precision that is rare for wines so rich. This wine has plenty of tannin, so give it 4-6 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 25-30 years.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/wine_advoate_logo_240x240.png?v=1769834033\" alt=\"Robert Parker Wine Advocate Logo\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e95+ Points, Wine Advocate:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“A big, bold, ripe wine with firm tannins and dark, solid fruits. The wine has acidity coming from the black currant flavors. Continuing the impressive quality of wines from La Gaffelière, it has weight and a rich feel to it, along with a tight, mineral final texture. This is a wine that is elegant as well as powerful.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/Chateau_La_Gaffeliere.jpg?v=1779883720\" alt=\"2010 Château La Gaffelière, Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"SommSelect","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46397830463542,"sku":"SOMM2605-CLG10BOR-750","price":164.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/files\/2010ChateauLaGaffeliere_Saint-EmilionGrandCru_PremierGrandCruClasse.png?v=1779465367"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0551\/3628\/8822\/collections\/2010_Chateau_La_Gaffeliere_Saint-Emilion_Premier_Grand_Cru_Classe_23.jpg?v=1780408465","url":"https:\/\/sommselect.com\/collections\/saint-emilion-wine-collection.oembed","provider":"SommSelect","version":"1.0","type":"link"}