Château Briot 2016

Winery Background and History

Château Briot is part of the Vignobles Ducourt, a family-owned enterprise established in 1858 in the Entre-Deux-Mers region of Bordeaux. The Ducourt family has expanded their holdings over generations, now managing over 450 hectares across 13 châteaux. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture and modern winemaking techniques has positioned them as one of Bordeaux’s prominent producers, offering a range of wines that reflect the region’s diversity and terroir.

Producer and Wine Maker

The Ducourt family oversees the production at Château Briot, with Jérémy Ducourt serving as the head oenologist. Emphasizing a balance between tradition and innovation, Jérémy employs meticulous vineyard management and state-of-the-art winemaking practices to craft wines that are expressive of their origin. The family’s hands-on approach ensures consistency and quality across vintages.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Château Briot’s vineyards span approximately 56 hectares in the Entre-Deux-Mers area, characterized by its rolling hills and proximity to the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with ample sunshine and moderate rainfall, ideal for viticulture. The soils are predominantly clay-limestone, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the grapes’ balanced ripening.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are harvested mechanically during the cool early morning hours to preserve freshness. Following a pre-fermentation cold maceration of 24–48 hours, alcoholic fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats at around 26°C. The wine undergoes a gentle maceration for three weeks at 30°C, followed by malolactic fermentation. Aging is conducted in a combination of oak barrels and stainless steel vats to enhance complexity while retaining fruit purity.

Tasting notes

The 2016 Château Briot Bordeaux Rouge presents a dark garnet color. The nose offers pleasant red berry aromas, complemented by hints of fresh walnut and toasted vanilla. On the palate, the wine is fresh and well-rounded, showcasing a fruit-driven profile with an elegant, soft tannic structure and good length.

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile Bordeaux pairs well with a variety of dishes, including charcuterie, tapas, red and white meats, and cheeses. Its balanced structure and fruit-forward character make it suitable for both casual meals and more refined cuisine.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) in standard red wine glasses to fully appreciate its aromas and flavors. Decanting is optional but can help the wine open up more quickly, especially if consumed in its youth.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with stable temperatures between 12–15°C (54–59°F). The 2016 vintage is approachable now but can be cellared for up to 5–7 years, during which it may develop additional complexity and integration.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon (exact percentages not specified)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 90 points