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A rich, ripe, Right Bank claret from a superb biodynamic estate. Owner since 2003, Olivier Cazenave is willing to challenge the status quo and makes a claret with ample fruit, yet the structure to age. With many awards, this 2016 is tasting well now.
Tasting notes
Velvety with bright blackcurrant and plum with oaky length. Mature
Aroma
Ripe cassis, cedar spice and a touch of oak
Allergy information
Contains sulphites
Until 2003, Olivier Cazenave was a négociant, selling the fines wines of Bordeaux. Then, in 2003, he decided that he wanted a property of his own, to make very good wines that didn't cost the earth. So he searched hard and found his dream – Château de Bel. It was a tricky time for Bordeaux, petit château wines were difficult to sell and many thought him mad. But determined, Olivier managed to purchase a few additional vineyards to add to the 1.75 hectares of the original estate. Olivier knew a lot already, but had never made wine, so spent six months at wine school and had plenty of friends in the business to advise. Since 2016, the estate has been biodynamic too. Pure Merlot, aged one third in new oak, the 2016 is showing well. Decant.