Wines Haut-Médoc Château Villambis - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Château Villambis 2016 is a red wine from the esteemed Haut-Médoc AOC, situated on the left bank of Bordeaux. As a Cru Bourgeois, this wine stands out for its reliable quality and reflects the classic Médoc blend, typically dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and often a touch of Petit Verdot. The 2016 vintage is widely celebrated for its exceptional balance and ageing potential, following a growing season marked by a dry, sunny summer that allowed for slow, even ripening of the grapes. Vinification at Château Villambis is traditional, focusing on careful extraction to preserve both the generous fruit character and the sculpted tannic structure, followed by maturation in oak barrels, part of them new, to add complexity and depth.

The Haut-Médoc region stretches north of Bordeaux, benefitting from a temperate Atlantic climate moderated by the proximity of the Gironde estuary. This area is renowned for its well-drained gravel soils, which are particularly well-suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, enabling it to reach optimal ripeness and delivering wines with robust structure, vibrant acidity, and deep colours. The history of winemaking here is rich, with the Cru Bourgeois classification itself a testament to centuries of dedicated viticulture from estates committed to excellence outside the famed classified growths. Over time, Haut-Médoc wines have become known for their approachability and age-worthiness, striking a harmonious balance between power and finesse.

Château Villambis 2016, with its aromatic profile of cassis, dark cherry, cedar, and a touch of graphite, pairs beautifully with classic French dishes such as roast lamb with herbs, entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak with a red wine and shallot sauce), or game birds such as duck breast. Local cheeses like Ossau-Iraty or a well-aged Comté will complement the wine’s structure. For a more traditional regional match, consider pairing with a mushroom and truffle risotto or a hearty cassoulet.

For the best tasting experience, decant this wine for an hour before serving, which will soften its tannins and allow the bouquet to unfold gracefully. Serve at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. Enjoy now for its fresh fruit and nuanced oak, or cellar for another five to eight years to witness its tertiary complexity blossom.