Château Marquis de Terme 2016

A fine and delicate Margaux red wine

Chateau Marquis de Terme is a 4th Classified Growth of 1855 produced in the Margaux appellation. The 39.5-hectare vineyard benefits from vines aged 35 years on average, planted on Garonne gravel, composed of quartz and quartzite, as well as clayey gravel. The ageing of the wine is carried out in barrels (of which 50% are new barrels) over a period of 16 to 18 months, depending on the year. The 2016 vintage blends 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot.

After an extremely mild and rainy winter, leading to an early budburst, the following spring turned out to be fresh and just as humid. However, flowering took place at the perfect time, on June 6th, thanks to a small window of good weather and high temperatures. The strong rainfall in the spring contributed significant downy mildew pressure to veraison. By the end of June, climatic conditions were changing dramatically, with the arrival of extreme heat and drought. Water stress was observed on young vines and soils. The first berries appeared on August 1st and a delay in grape ripening forecasted late harvests. Drought caused some blockages in the vines, limiting the weight of the grapes. However, on September 13th, a heavy rainfall saved the harvest, allowing the vines to continue their maturation and increase yields. Finally, the harvest took place peacefully between September 29th and October 21st under ideal weather conditions.

At tasting, the Chateau Marquis de Terme 2016 reveals a fruity nose with aromas of black fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry). The tannins combine elegance, freshness and softness, resulting in a delicate and fine wine on the palate. The finish is marked by wonderful complexity from the barrel-ageing.