Château Seguélongue 2016 from the Médoc appellation offers a classic representation of Bordeaux red, composed primarily from the region’s signature blends—typically Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, sometimes complemented by Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The 2016 vintage benefited from an excellent growing season, marked by a wet spring and a hot, dry summer, which helped achieve perfect phenolic ripeness while maintaining freshness and structure. The vineyard’s gravelly soils atop a clay-limestone base are characteristic of the Médoc, providing excellent drainage and forcing the vines to dig deep, resulting in berries of great concentration. Vinification here follows traditional Bordeaux methods, with careful maceration and aging in French oak barrels, imparting depth and softening the tannins.
Médoc, as a subregion of Bordeaux’s Left Bank, is renowned for its maritime climate. The proximity to the Atlantic tempers extremes, fostering steady ripening while retaining the vital acidity that gives these wines their longevity and elegance. The region’s history is inextricably linked to the rise of Bordeaux as a global wine powerhouse. Vineyards here have been highly esteemed since the 17th century, and the Médoc’s reputation is built on producing structured reds capable of aging beautifully.
This wine’s robust structure and bouquet of blackcurrant, plum, cedar, and subtle earthy notes make it a versatile partner at the table. Classic Bordeaux pairings include roasted rack of lamb with Provençal herbs, beef entrecôte bordelaise, or duck confit. Mushroom risotto or aged Comté cheese also highlight the wine’s savory complexity. For a regional touch, consider serving with cannelés de Bordeaux for a unique contrast—though this wine truly shines with hearty, savory fare.
To enjoy Château Seguélongue 2016 at its best, serve at 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour is recommended to allow the wine to fully express its aromatic nuances and soften its youthful tannins. This bottle is drinking well now but could reward further cellar aging for added sophistication.
