Wines Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Château Balestard La Tonnelle - Grand Cru Classe - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Château Balestard La Tonnelle 2016 is a distinguished red wine from the revered Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation in Bordeaux. The wine is produced from a classic Bordeaux blend, predominantly featuring Merlot, complemented by Cabernet Franc and often a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2016 vintage is renowned for exceptional quality—ample sunshine and cool nights contributed to grapes of perfect ripeness and vibrant freshness. Vinification draws from both modern precision and traditional techniques, with careful extraction during fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels, adding complexity and structure. While classified as a Grand Cru, the exact proportions of the blend and vineyard details remain closely guarded by the château, whose history stretches back to medieval times as signposted by the picturesque stone tower on the estate.

Saint-Émilion, nestled on the Right Bank of Bordeaux, is famed for its unique terroir—a mosaic of limestone plateaus, clay slopes, and sandy soils. The region enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with the Dordogne River mitigating temperature extremes, ensuring a long, balanced growing season. These ideal conditions favour Merlot’s early ripening and encourage the development of fine tannins and a supple mouthfeel. Saint-Émilion’s rich viticultural legacy, with monastic foundations and centuries of winemaking tradition, is reflected in the depth and elegance of its wines.

The 2016 Château Balestard La Tonnelle is a richly textured, aromatic wine with notes of dark cherry, blackberry, subtle oak, and hints of tobacco and spice. It will find a natural partner in classic French cuisine, notably roast lamb with herbs, duck breast, or a slow-cooked beef daube. Local Saint-Émilion pairings could include entrecôte à la bordelaise or an earthy mushroom risotto. Mature cheeses such as Comté or Saint-Nectaire will highlight the wine’s complexity and structure.

To fully appreciate its expressive nose and refined palate, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour is highly recommended to reveal its layered aromas and soften the youthful tannins, especially if enjoyed in the next few years.