Château Ricaudet 2016, Cru Bourgeois from the Médoc AOC, is a classic example of Bordeaux's mastery in crafting structured red wines with remarkable longevity. This wine is typically composed of a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and possibly Petit Verdot. The 2016 vintage benefitted from a warm and dry summer, allowing for optimal ripening and concentration in the grapes. Methods of traditional vinification are likely employed, with fermentation in stainless steel or concrete vats, followed by aging in French oak barrels. This process imparts the wine with refined tannins, layers of dark fruit such as blackberry and cassis, subtle notes of tobacco, cedar, as well as hints of spice and earthiness characteristic of this terroir.
The Médoc region is situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary in Bordeaux, an area celebrated for its gravelly soils that provide excellent drainage and stress the vines just enough to produce grapes with excellent concentration and complexity. Its maritime climate, tempered by the nearby Atlantic Ocean, ensures mild winters and moderate summers, shielding the vineyards from extreme heat and frost. With a rich viticultural heritage, the Médoc has been a benchmark for producing age-worthy wines marked by finesse and structure, as is evident in the Cru Bourgeois classification, which recognises properties offering high quality outside the top classified growths.
To pair with Château Ricaudet 2016, consider dishes that can balance its tannic structure and depth. Classic matches include roast lamb with garlic and herbs, duck breast with a wild mushroom sauce, or beef entrecôte cooked to medium-rare. Local Bordelaise cuisine such as confit de canard or entrecôte à la Bordelaise, with their savoury and rich profiles, will harmonise beautifully. Mature cheeses like Comté or aged Gruyère also offer a delightful complement.
For an optimal tasting experience, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving to allow the aromas to fully unfold. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C, which will highlight its complexity and silky tannins while maintaining freshness and elegance on the palate. This wine can be enjoyed now with proper aeration, or cellared for further development.
