La Dauphine Fronsac 2016

93-95 points Chris Kissack (Winedoctor): "The wine of this imposing estate in Fronsac is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, with an alcohol of 14%, and 30% new oak. The vineyard is run according to biodynamic principles. Beautiful aromatic purity here, the nose dark and smoky, with the curranty concentration that defines the vintage quite evident. There follows a lovely freshness on the palate, a concentration of pure black cherry and blackcurrant, with a smoky and sooty intensity, lifted by the vibrant acidity of the vintage, with a very supple, low-key backdrop of tannins. This is elegant, pure, smoky and fresh, with some tension and real lift. Very good. (Apr 2017)"

93 points James Suckling: "A firm and chewy red with dark-berry, chocolate and walnut character with some salty, mineral undertones. Full body. Dense and driven for the vintage. A blend of 90 per cent merlot and ten per cent cabernet franc. (1/14/19)"

93 points Peter Moser (Falstaff): "Deep dark ruby, firm core, purple reflections, delicate bright rim. On the nose inviting fine oak note, black berry fruit, and fresh orange zest. On the palate juicy, elegant, well balanced, fine cherry fruit, and with integrated tannins. It has charm and is a versatile wine. (5/24/17)"

92 points Stephen Brook (Decanter): "The property of the Moueix family until 2000, this handsome château of 1750 is owned now by the Labrune family The black-fruited nose is complex, with spicy oak and a light floral character too. Rich and velvety, very concentrated and spicy, this doesn't quite conceal the high alcohol. Spicy and vigorous, it's imposing and has enough acidity to give drive and persistence. Drinking Window: 2023-2032. (5/5/21)"

92 points Jane Anson: "This is probably the best wine ever produced at La Dauphine, loaded with brambly fruits and softly-spun minerality, taking it into the top tier of the appellation. They are now at 53ha of vines, making them a significant Right Bank player. Working entirely organically and biodynamically, this year a new plot has been included from up on the limestone plateau that was not historically biodynamic, so they have had to start the process of certification all over again. The blend this year is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. Drinking Window: 2021-2035. (4/3/17)"