Citran Haut-Médoc 2016

93-95 points Chris Kissack (Winedoctor): "Another extensive estate, with more than 100 hectares of vines, and one that remains in the possession of the Merlaut family. The vines are 48% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, and the blend usually reflects this fairly closely. The 2016 barrel sample has a nose of smoky hedgerow and black fruits, with a little grilled nut and pip note over the top. The palate has real charm, showing convincing black cherry and black plum flavours, wrapped up in a tense, fresh, tannin- and acid-wrapped middle. Smoked, perfumed, fresh and pure, taut but with good generosity of fruit, this is the most convincing Citran I can recall in a long time. The finish has a tannic conviction, ripe, with lingering fruit. This is potentially very good indeed. (Apr 2017)"

92 points James Suckling: "A firm and silky wine with integrated tannins and cool, fresh fruit. Medium body. Tangy and tense finish. A blend of 49 per cent merlot, 43 per cent cabernet sauvignon and eight per cent cabernet franc. Drink in 2022. (1/18/19)"

90 points Jane Anson (Decanter): "A super-reliable, good quality name in the Haut-Médoc category. Ground coffee flavours run right through the extremely elegant black fruits, liquorice and charcoal, with a lovely seam of freshness. The tannins are just a touch too solid, but it yet again shows the brilliant quality in this vintage at different levels. The blend is 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. Drinking Window: 2025-2040. (Apr 2017)"

90 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The ruby/purple-hued 2016 Château Citran is an outstanding Haut-Médoc boasting loads of red and black fruits, notes of underbrush and graphite, medium to full body, and a balanced, elegant texture that’s very much in the style of the vintage. It’s a hidden gem and, I suspect, a great value. Drink: 2020-2035. (Feb 2019)"