Chteau de Francs is one of the oldest estates of Bordeaux. Taken up by two leading Saint Emilion figures in 1985 and lavished with much investment, its clarets are superb. From the classic 2016 vintage, this fine red is dark, velvety and complex.

The beautifully restored, medieval Chteau de Francs has been the pet project of school friends Hubert de Board of Chteau Angelus and Dominique Hbrard, formerly of Chteau Cheval Blanc, since the 1980s. With such illustrious backgrounds, it was perhaps surprising that the two decided to invest in little known Ctes de Francs, Bordeauxs smallest appellation. But it has proved a propitious move. As you’d expect, it comprises mostly of hand harvested Merlot, with a little of both Cabernets, aged 50% in new oak for around 12 months. Its full bodied and intense with ripe, concentrated fruit, while ageing in barrel lends layers of complexity and roundness. Enjoy this exceptional claret with confit de canard or steak.