2016 Cantemerle, Haut-Médoc

This beautiful château is one of the first major properties encountered heading north on the Route des Châteaux. Situated in a woodland setting, this 94-hectare estate is situated on sand and gravel soils, and produces fresh, early-drinking and great value wines. Medium-bodied with some graphite, mineral notes adding to the ripe blackberry fruit. 12 months ageing in oak, 40% new. (AH)

Sweet fruit on the nose is joined by plum and touches of vanillin. It has a southern Médoc feel, with almost-jammy fruit and a gourmet, damson streak. Edgy tannins hold the appealing, generous fruit, and the acidity is pretty high, but that's a signature of the vintage. A blend of the two Cabernets, Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, aged for 12 months in oak, 40% new. Eric Boissenot consults.