
A mature-vintage offering from a celebrated Bordeaux year, suited to those who appreciate developed fruit, savoury complexity and the structure of classic Right Bank wines.

Croix de Beauséjour 2016 is the second wine of Château Beauséjour (Duffau-Lagarrosse), the distinguished Saint-Émilion estate classified Premier Grand Cru Classé. It offers a different way to experience the property's exceptional terroir: a wine with its own identity, combining the richness of Merlot with the aromatic lift and structure of Cabernet Franc.
The 2016 vintage is widely regarded as one of the standout Bordeaux vintages of the decade. A favourable growing season allowed the grapes to achieve excellent ripeness while retaining freshness and definition, creating wines with concentration, balance and the structure to develop beautifully in bottle.
The first impression is one of depth and savoury complexity. Dark blackberry and blackcurrant mingle with ripe plum and black cherry, while Cabernet Franc brings aromatic lift and a more nuanced dimension to the fruit. With aeration, the bouquet opens towards tobacco, liquorice, cedar, leather and earthy notes, complemented by hints of spice and smoke from oak ageing.
On the palate, the wine has a serious, structured character. The fruit is generous without losing definition, supported by firm yet increasingly integrated tannins and a freshness that keeps the wine composed rather than heavy. Savoury, earthy nuances add complexity, while the finish is persistent, with dark fruit, spice and a mineral edge.
This is not simply a fruit-forward Bordeaux. Its appeal lies in the interplay between ripe fruit, tannic structure and the more restrained, savoury qualities that emerge with bottle age.
Croix de Beauséjour 2016 is a natural companion to roast lamb, beef fillet, venison and slow-cooked beef. It also works beautifully with dishes featuring wild mushrooms, truffle or herbs, where its savoury character can complement rather than overpower the food.
For the best experience, serve at approximately 16–18°C and allow the wine time in the glass to open. Decanting for at keast 30 minutes will help reveal its aromas.
For collectors and Bordeaux enthusiasts, Croix de Beauséjour 2016 offers the pleasure of a mature vintage from a highly regarded Saint-Émilion estate, with complexity, structure and a clear sense of origin. It is a compelling choice for a special dinner or for those who appreciate Bordeaux as it evolves beyond its youthful fruit.
Antonio GAalioni 90/100
Jeff Leve 91/100
Drinking window : 2022 - 2036
Vintage’82 Ltd has been the exclusive importer of Château Beauséjour (Duffau-Lagarrosse) in Malta since 2025.