2016 Gros Caillou
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Interesting aromas of spearmint and cedar to the dark-berry character, following through to a medium body, with polished and tight, velvety tannins and a lightly bitter finish. Should soften with age. Try after 2021.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Gros Caillou is a blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from vines located on a particular plot of more gravelly soils in Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens. I actually mentioned this on social media when I tasted it and, apparently within an hour, the négociants were on the phone. It has a ripe bouquet with opulent black cherry and bilberry scents, becoming more and more floral in the glass. It has a disarming purity. The palate is sweet and ripe on the entry, but there is a lovely thread of acidity here, the 50% new oak neatly entwined on the plush and sensual finish. It stands as a great excuse not to buy more expensive Saint-Émilion. If you find a better value Saint-Émilion in 2016, let me know.
The 2016 Gros Caillou is a blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from vines located on a particular plot of more gravelly soils in Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens. I actually mentioned this on social media when I tasted it and, apparently within an hour, the négociants were on the phone. It has a ripe bouquet with opulent black cherry and bilberry scents, becoming more and more floral in the glass. It has a disarming purity. The palate is sweet and ripe on the entry, but there is a lovely thread of acidity here, the 50% new oak neatly entwined on the plush and sensual finish. It stands as a great excuse not to buy more expensive Saint-Émilion. If you find a better value Saint-Émilion in 2016, let me know.