Tasting of Legends 2016: A Homage to the Berlin Tasting

In the world of fine wine, few events have transformed the global conversation as profoundly as the Berlin Tasting of 2004. On a chilly January day, a blind tasting orchestrated by British wine merchant Steven Spurrier presented a remarkable line-up to Europe’s most respected palates. Top-tier Bordeaux and Grand Cru Burgundies were tasted alongside their New World counterparts from Chile and California. The results elegantly redefined the establishment's perspective: the 2000 vintage of Viñedo Chadwick (Chile) placed first, with Seña 2001 (a Chilean wine co-owned by the Mondavi family) coming a close second, ahead of legendary names like Château Margaux and Château Latour.

This was not a defeat for the Old World, but a triumph for the global wine community. The Berlin Tasting boldly expanded the definition of excellence, proving that visionary winemaking and exceptional terroir could be found in celebrated regions across the world. It championed a truly inclusive perspective, focusing on the intrinsic quality in the glass above all else.

That spirit of open-minded discovery and the appreciation of diverse brilliance is more relevant than ever. In honour of this legacy, we turn to the magnificent 2016 vintage—a year lauded from Bordeaux to Napa for its ideal conditions, yielding wines of exceptional balance, structure, and longevity. It is the perfect vintage to appreciate the distinct voice of the world's greatest regions.

We have handpicked four legendary wines from 2016, each a sovereign expression of its origin. Together, they form a curated journey through the pinnacle of modern winemaking—an invitation to experience, compare, and celebrate the shared pursuit of perfection.

Chateau Latour 2016, Pauillac, Bordeaux
The unwavering benchmark. From an exceptional Bordeaux vintage, this Latour is a monument to power and precision, with its classic cassis, graphite, and immense, sculpted tannins. It represents the timeless pedigree and enduring standard of a First Growth.

Sena 2016, Aconcagua Valley, Chile
A wine born from the spirit the Berlin Tasting celebrated. Created by Eduardo Chadwick and Robert Mondavi, Seña is Chile’s profound statement of place. The 2016 is beautifully concentrated, with dark fruit, aromatic herbs, and a refined structure, showcasing the majestic potential of the Aconcagua Valley on the world stage.

Opus One 2016, Napa Valley, California
The embodiment of a transatlantic vision. This harmonious blend of Napa Valley fruit and Bordeaux philosophy offers layers of blackberry, violet, and mocha, with a seamless, opulent texture. It stands as a testament to the pioneering collaboration that foreshadowed a more connected wine world.

Masseto 2016, Tuscany, Italy
The icon that carved its own legend. From the Tuscan coast, this 100% Merlot expresses unparalleled power and purity. The 2016 is dense with plum and dark chocolate, yet vibrant with acidity and a signature saline minerality—a masterclass in singular, site-specific expression.

The Berlin Tasting reminded us to judge fine wine on its own merits, a principle that enriches our appreciation of every great region. These four bottles from a landmark vintage offer you the opportunity to continue that expansive exploration. Discover the eloquent dialogue between tradition and innovation, and write your own chapter in this ongoing, global story of excellence.

Explore the collection and craft your own iconic tasting experience.