2016 Château Saint-Roch, Saint-Estèphe

This unclassified wine from the exceptional 2016 vintage is drinking perfectly now. Found in the wine section of the Auchan hypermarket in Bordeaux city center; grape composition is not available, but likely contains roughly equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Color was clear medium ruby; nose was of medium+ intensity; flavors and aromas included red and black fruit (plums and strawberries) accompanied by tobacco, mushroom, thyme and forest floor; tannins and acidity both medium+; body and flavor intensity medium+; much longer finish than expected at this price, of medium+ length. It’s excellent value locally in France at its typical €20-€25 price. I score this wine 90 points.