Bordeaux, 2016. Chateau Bellevue

Chateau Bellevue is one of those wines which make us wonder why people aren't drinking more Bordeaux. The name itself means "lovely view" and that sentiment is carried through to the wine. If one were to find a wine of this quality anywhere in the world, we're not mentioning any names, it would cost at least twice the price.

The chateaux was founded in the 1960s and purchased by Michael and Catherine Lydoire whose daughter, Celine, is now the winemaker. It is located in the Castillo appellation very close to Saint Emilion. One of their consulting enologists is Gilles Pauquet, the former enologist at none other than Chateau Cheval Blanc, one of the finest wine made in Bordeaux. The vines are now 40 years old and in the prime of their production.

The fact that they age the wine in 90% new French oak barrels is impressive enough especially when you consider that other 10% of the barrels came from Chateau Haut Brion. When you add a spectacular vintage like 2016, everything else is elevated. The blend here is a classic Right Bank offering made of 65% Merlot and 35% Caberne Franc.

This is an extremely elegant and refined selection where the balance is mesmerizing. Everything from the black currant and blackberry fruit to the rich earth and startling spice components are held in perfect suspension by the enveloping, velvety tannins. One can only image a match with a prime, smoked point cut brisket gracing each other or Kobe rib eye seared to perfection. Mouths, you may begin watering.

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