Château Malescot St. Exupéry 2016 | Margaux

Wine Identification
The subject of this profile is the Château Malescot St. Exupéry, a red wine produced by the eponymous winery in France. This specific vintage is from 2016 and originates from the Margaux appellation within the Médoc region of Bordeaux. It holds the prestigious classification of Third Growth (Troisième Grand Cru Classé) as established in the 1855 Classification.

Origin and Winemaking
Situated in Bordeaux, France, the estate cultivates vines with an average age of approximately 35 years. The planting density is recorded at 10,000 vines per hectare. The grape composition reflects a classic Left Bank blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot.

The winemaking process begins with manual harvesting. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging for 16 months in new French oak barrels.

Expected Profile and Tasting Notes
Visually, the wine presents a medium to deep garnet color. On the nose, it exhibits notes of cassis, fragrant earth, tobacco, lilacs, and mocha. The palate is characterized by a medium to full body with layers of expressive fruit. The structure is defined by ripe, grainy tannins and significant freshness. The finish offers great length and depth.

Critics' Scores and Comments
The 2016 vintage has received high acclaim from notable critics:
The Wine Advocate (Parker): Scored 95/100. The review describes the wine as "singing" with its aromatic profile, noting its youthful stage framed by ripe tannins and oodles of freshness.
James Suckling: Scored 97/100. He praises it as a "stunning red" featuring currants, blackberries, roses, and violets. He highlights the ultra-fine tannins and polish, noting that it is better than the 2015 vintage.

Overall Character
Château Malescot St. Exupéry 2016 is a powerful yet refined Third Growth Margaux. It balances traditional Bordeaux structure with vibrant fruit expression.