Acte 8, 2016

The Guineaudeaus describe the 2016 growing season as 'a three step waltz'; the wet spring, the 'brutal' drought and the 'moderate' autumn. It makes it all sound so easy, but the reality was less serene. The 2016 range is amongst the very best we have ever tasted, but this came at a huge cost and much sacrifice. The eighth incarnation of Acte is spellbinding and complex. Since 2014 all the Cabernet Franc used in the blend comes from massale selections from the Lafleur vineyard - and it is this exquisite Cabernet Franc that provides the ethereal fragrance and lifted fruit. This is really complex and serious. Initially it is harder to understand (than Grand Village), but with aeration one can begin to see the potential. The limestone terroir gives this a deeply mineral, concentrated core and surprising complexity. Vibrant and high-toned tayberry and stones emerge from the glass while the palate is taut and powerful with an abundance of sleek cherry fruit. Salty, long and vivid. Thrilling.