Château Carbonneau, Sainte-Foy Côtes de Bordeaux (France) 2016

 This is a lovely example of the quality one can find in 2016 red Bordeaux.  Château Carbonneau is located in Sainte-Foy in the eastern reaches of the Bordeaux appellation.  The rolling hills and vineyards are dotted with forested areas in this most charming part of France.  Château Carbonneau is nestled in this pastoral country and produces excellent red, white and rosé wines.  The 2016 Classique is a lovely example of Carbonneau style.  Still quite youthful, it opens up with an hour’s aeration to reveal lovely blackcurrant, black cherry and plum fruits interwoven with hints of violets, herbs and earth.  Blended from Merlot 75%, Cabernet Franc 15% and Malbec 10%, it is impressive for the purity of its fruit and layering of flavors.  The 2016 Carbonneau Classique is a fine Bordeaux that can be enjoyed now or cellared for 5 to 8 years.