Château Citran 2016 from the Haut‑Médoc is a proper, old‑school left‑bank Bordeaux – classy, savoury and structured, with more character than you’d expect at the price. A blend of roughly equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon with a dash of Cabernet Franc, it channels that classic cassis‑and‑cedar Médoc vibe with real confidence.

In the glass you’re looking at deep ruby with just a touch of bricking, and a nose of blackcurrant, black cherry and plum layered with cigar box, dark chocolate, pencil shavings, forest floor and a little graphite and ground coffee. The palate is medium‑bodied and firmly framed – juicy dark fruits up front, then teeth‑coating yet fine tannins, bright acidity and savoury notes of char, cocoa and earth flowing through a taut, saline, long finish. It’s still a touch old‑fashioned and grippy, but that’s exactly its charm, and it’s right in the zone now with a decent decant.

Château Citran 2016 absolutely shines at the table – roast lamb, brisket, rib‑eye on the bone or a mushroom and thyme ragù will all tame the structure and let the fruit and complexity sing. It’s also excellent with hard cheeses and charcuterie, and makes a cracking option for Bordeaux lovers who want genuine Haut‑Médoc pedigree and a 2016 vintage stamp without heading into silly money.