The 2016 Chateau Quintus, of course under the umbrella of Domaine Clarence Dillon (Haut Brion, La Mission Haut Brion), is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc picked between 3 and 20 October. This is the highest proportion of Cabernet Franc since the debut in 2011. Matured in just under 30% new oak, it has a slightly broody bouquet at first with black fruit and hints of allspice and clove. The palate is nicely structured, with the Cabernet Franc lending this impressive backbone (more than the 2015) and a slightly masculine, grippy finish that suggests it will be a long-term proposition. Excellent. 92-94 points

The sixth vintage under the wing of Haut-Brion. The vines didn`t block in the heat here, which is why the alcohols are generous, but this is absolutely perfectly balanced. The generosity of the ripe blackberry and cassis fruit stretches out with the juice running right through it, joined by some exotic spice and grilled oak touches through the mid-palate. But they never o verwhelm the gentle extraction, and overall this is an extremely successful Quintus that leaves a beautifully fragrant quality in the mouth. 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. 94 points

It’s quite a ripe, late picked style, but it doesn’t show its 15% alcohol, thanks to the acidity and leafy vibrancy of the Cabernet Franc. Drink 2023-29. 94 points

One of the real surprises of the vintage, the 2016 Quintus is superb. Creamy and ample on the palate, with striking depth to its dark, fleshy fruit, it possesses exceptional balance. All of the previous vintages have been good, but each of them has lacked something. The 2016 is the first vintage in which I can say Quintus is not missing anything. Now, what remains to be seen is how high this wine can go. The 2016 is exceptionally vivid and nuanced, with seemingly endless layers of fruit that virtually cover the tannins, and a long, sublime finish. 93-96+ points