Le Dôme St Emilion Grand Cru 2016

The chewy frame really does take some time to climb, thoroughly suggest giving this either a few more years in bottle or a long carafe. There is gorgeous fresh mint and eucalyptus in the centre, surrounding the muscular and rippling tannins, and this is a physical wine that pulls you upwards with its acidity, but struggles to escape the heat of the vintage. Don’t expect the delicate, fragrant Cabernet Franc of great Loire – think instead luscious chocolate-enrobed violet flowers, with damson, black cherry and blueberry fruits. Neil Whyte winemaker, Jonathan Maltus owner. 80% new oak for ageing, malolactic in new oak.