2016 Millery

The 2016 Millery is one of the most rapturous, seductive wines I tasted during my December trip to Bordeaux. Thierry Manoncourt, the late owner of Figeac, bought this small estate in 1942 when he was in the French army. The tiny vineyard covers less than one hectare and is planted with 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. For decades, Millery remained more of a small family estate, with the wine destined for home consumption, than a commercial enterprise. Only around 4,000 bottles are produced each year, and most of this disappears very quickly. A wine of pure and total finesse, Millery is simply exquisite. The notes of dark red fruits, flowers, licorice and spices reveal the contours of a pencil sketch in their fine lines and precision. Figeac's technical director, Frédéric Faye, crafted the 2016 with the help of consulting winemaker Thomas Duclos, who has helped Canon, Troplong Mondot and other estates make great leaps in quality in recent years. Most importantly, however, the 2016 is simply delicious. Run, don't walk. And you heard it here first....

Grape variety: Merlot, Cabernet Franc

Alcohol content: 14% vol.
Allergen information: Contains sulphites

Bottler, importer: Chateau de Millery, 33330 Saint Emilion, FRANCE