Chateau Dassault Saint Emilion Grand Cru (Grand Cru Classe) 2016

Founded in the mid-19th century by the Fourcaud family who are also responsible for setting up the now world-famous Chateau Cheval Blanc, Chateau Dassault was known as Chateau Couperie until 1955 when the estate was acquired by the visionary Marcel Dassault. Dassault transformed the fortunes of the estate, renovating the entire property and introducing modern winemaking techniques. Such was his influence that in 1969 Chateau Dassault was promoted to Grand Cru status.

Today the estate is still owned by the same family and has 24 hectares of prime Saint Emilion vineyards planted on top quality sandy limestone soils. The estate is planted with 75% Merlot, the signature grape of Saint Emilion, as well as 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. This is their Grand Vin which is vinified in large concrete vats and then aged in predominantly new French oak barrels for around 14 to 18 months, depending on the characteristics of each vintage.

The result is a strikingly elegant and refined Saint Emilion with punchy plum, cassis, blackberry and cigar box spice notes. On the palate there are firm tannins, a generous full body and a silky smooth texture that is so typical of Merlot-dominant Bordeaux wines. While ready to drink now alongside hearty red meat dishes, this wine has a long future ahead of it and can be kept in the cellar for at least another decade and a half.

Award:

93 Wine Spectator

93 Robert Parker

93 James Suckling

91 Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider

90 Wine Enthusiast

90 Decanter

16.5/20 La Revue du Vin de France