2006 Château Cantemerle
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
More open aromatically than the 2005, this is at a good moment to drink, loaded with brambled blackberries, redcurrants, smoked earth, white pepper spice, tomato leaf, a little foursquare on the finish. An abundant year in terms of yield, and the Merlot ripened better than the Cabernet, reflected in the blend. Philippe Dambrine director, 40% new oak for ageing.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 2006 Cantemerle was the "surprise package" of the blind tasting at Farr Vintners' horizontal. It has a conservative nose with rosemary and undergrowth scents that open nicely in the glass, but retain a sense of classicism. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, lightly spiced red berry fruit, sage and white pepper, quite persistent on the finish, which feels very pure. What an outstanding 2006 Claret - a Cantemerle that punches well above its weight. Tasted April 2016.
Tasted blind. Dark ruby. Heady nose and on the cusp of overripeness but I think in this case it just about makes it to fresh enough. Round and rather exotic. But just a bit overdone. GV (JR)
About the producer

Owned by SMABTP Insurance since 1980, this estate has been carefully restored to its former glory, expanding its vineyards to the original 90 hectares and producing high-quality wines in line with its status.