Chateau Croizet-Bages 2016

During the early part of the 18th century, the Croizet brothers began buying parcels of vineyards in Pauillac between the town and the border of the Saint Julien appellation. The brothers followed the lead of Chateau Grand Puy Ducasse whereas the Grand House was built (in 1875) near the Gironde Estuary away from all the vines. Unlike Chateau Grand Puy Ducasse, the Grand House has since been sold to the Maison de la Culture de Pauilac, so the estate is without the focal point of a grand building. For a sort time during the ownership of Julien Calve, the wine was known as Calve-Croizet. For a short time after WWI, the American, Jean-Baptiste Monnot owned the property. He kept it until it was sold a Bordeaux Negoiciant, Paul Quie. His son is now in charge of the property.

The 30 hectare Medoc vineyard of Croizet Bages is planted to 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. The vines are located on the Bages plateau in one large contiguous parcel.

The Quie family also owns Chateau Rausan Gassies in Margaux and Chateau Bel Orme Tronquoy de Lalande in the Haut Medoc

Decanter: 92
Again, this is a vintage where Croizet Bages has inched forward in quality - it's noticeable and should be congratulated, because it remains great value as far as classified Pauillacs go. This needs time in the glass to open up as it has an extremely rich tannic structure. It's masculine in style; a hefty, good quality, savoury character that builds extremely slowly and surely in a confident way. Matured in 50% new oak. Eric Boissenot consults. Drinking Window 2024 - 2038.

Decanter: 92

Again, this is a vintage where Croizet Bages has inched forward in quality - it's noticeable and should be congratulated, because it remains great value as far as classified Pauillacs go. This needs time in the glass to open up as it has an extremely rich tannic structure. It's masculine in style; a hefty, good quality, savoury character that builds extremely slowly and surely in a confident way. Matured in 50% new oak. Eric Boissenot consults. Drinking Window 2024 - 2038.

Wine Enthusiast: 91
Barrel Sample. Packed with black currant acidity, this juicy wine comes from an improving estate. It has plenty of generous fruit cut by intense acidity. The wine's balance suggests cellaring until 2026.

James Suckling: 92
Lots of blackcurrant and hot-stone character on the nose. Full and tannic with a chewy finish. Shows structure. Very well done.

Jeb Dunnuck: 90
An impressive, fruit-loaded, fleshy Pauillac, the 2016 Château Croizet-Bages offers a deep ruby/purple color as well as a complex bouquet of dark fruits, leafy herbs, and truffle. With good mid-palate depth, a chewy, medium to full-bodied texture, and outstanding length, it has plenty to love and should keep for 10-15 years.