Château Clarke, Listrac-Médoc (Bordeaux, France) 2016

 2016 was a ripe vintage for Bordeaux with many fine wines now available on the market.  Prices for wines from the most famous Bordeaux estates are formidable, indeed.  Those seeking better value in claret often look to the village of Listrac-Médoc.  Listrac lies between St. Julien and Margaux and is a bit further inland from the river.  There is more clay in the soil here and Merlot is widely planted to take advantage of that characteristic.  The best wines have a lot of charm and character — and prices that are much friendlier than those of neighboring villages.  The 2016 Château Clarke is rich with blackberry, blackcurrant and red cherry fruits underscored by hints of violets, tobacco, smoke, vanilla and baking spices.  It is an exemplary claret that expresses the richness and depth of the vintage with its beautiful purity of fruit and complex layering of flavors.  This is a wine you can enjoy now or cellar for another 15 or more years.  The blend is Cabernet Sauvignon 30%, Merlot 70%.