THE VINTAGES
Château Cartier 2016
Weather Conditions During the Growing Season
The 2016 vintage will be remembered as an improbable year, marked by contrasts and ultimately rare. It was characterized by an excessively wet spring followed by a particularly dry summer. Everything began under favorable auspices with early budburst. This lead was quickly made up for, as the months from March to June were rather cool and very humid. Mildew became the primary concern. In this threatening context for the overall lifecycle of the vine, the skies cleared for ten days, resulting in rapid and complete flowering. From June 21st, summer arrived, warm and above all extremely dry throughout the season. The rains on September 13th, necessary to relieve the vines, allowed for a serene approach to the harvest.
Total vineyard area
16.70 hectares
Harvest terroir
clay-limestone hillside and clay-silt foothills
Grape varieties
100% Merlot
Harvest dates
September 28 to October 11
Winemaking
A brief overview of the winemaking process for this vintage.
Farming methods
Organic wine, EU Agriculture, FR-BIO-07. Biodynamic wine, certified by ECOCERT France SAS
Maturation
75% in oak barrels, 25% in vats
Tasting
The color is dark and intense. The nose is refined, complex, and pure, featuring aromas of black fruit, violet, cinnamon, and sweet spices. On the palate, the texture is luscious and full-bodied. The mineral expression, with a saline tendency, brings elegance and length. The acidity provides freshness and tension. The fruit is present, rich, and ripe. On the finish, the wine lingers on the palate indefinitely.
Commentary
Commentary updated by Alain Moueix – 2017
Discover the estate's wines available for order.
VISIT THE SHOP