2016 Roc de Cambes, Cotes de Bourg 1x750ml

Robert Parker 93

The 2016 Roc de Cambes has turned out beautifully, unwinding in the glass with rich aromas of cassis and cherries mingled with a rich patina of dark chocolate, spices and cigar wrapper. Full-bodied, deep and muscular, its ample, concentrated core is framed by powdery tannins and impressively lively acids. While it’s unavoidably marked by its time in 100% new wood, it’s the best integrated "great" vintage of Roc de Cambes I can remember tasting at such an early stage. Include it in a blind tasting a decade from now and watch it slay plenty of heavyweight Right Bank names. [William Kelley, 25/12/2021]

Anticipated maturity: 2026-2046

Vinous 93

The 2016 Roc de Cambes was mighty impressive from barrel. Bottled in August 2018, it has retained a beguiling bouquet of perfumed red plum, blueberry, tayberry and light estuarine scents, plus a tang of a cold northern sea. The palate is medium-bodied with a sweet candied opening, dark chocolate and even toffee subtly interwoven into the red fruit. The spicy finish features a healthy sprinkling of black pepper. This is an outstanding Roc de Cambes that, dare I suggest, is going to give Tertre-Roteboeuf a run for its money. [Neal Martin, 24/01/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2050