Carmes Haut Brion 2019

Les Carmes Haut-Brion

Case Format: 3x150cl

Max score: 98.0

The lesser-known neighbour of Haut Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion, Château Les Carmes Haut Brion are not one to be overlooked. Positioned on the same distinct terroir as its famous counterparts, this Pessac-Léognan estate has been creating beautiful wine for centuries. 7.6 hectares of the 29.6-hectare estate are used to produce Les Carmes Haut Brion. The vineyard is planted with Merlot (c.41%), Cabernet Franc (c.39%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (c.20%). The vines are on average nearly 45 years old, with the oldest being close to 90. Around 45% of their grapes are fermented with the stems intact in a bid to add more freshness and minerality to the wine. After vinification the wines are aged in 100% new French oak barrels, with 5% of the wine aged in clay amphora. The end result is a beautifully complex wine, that comprises silky textures and strong fruity flavours.

IN BOND

CRITIC REVIEWS

98
Georgina Hindle

One of my favourite wines in 2019, immediately captivating with a lasting impression. Gorgeous dark purple in the glass with blackcurrant notes, perfumed violets, dark chocolate and hints of truffle - the old-vine Bouchet (Cabernet Franc) giving aromatic intensity on the nose and palate. Succulent straight away with ripe cherry, blood orange and pink grapefruit flavours set against soft, mouthwatering acidity and a lovely saline grip to the tannins. Its rich but just giving delicate hints in each direction of fruit, acidity, freshness, structure, mouthfeel and body. Restrained and poised, with a drinkability that makes you want a glass now, but could happily be enjoyed decades from now. Managing director Guillaume Pouthier said he simply Wants to make wine that is drunk and this is eminently drinkable. A blend of 48% Cabernet Franc, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot. 3.60 pH. 80% ageing in new barrel, 9% amphora, 11% foudre. Stéphane Derenoncourt consultant.

17.5+
James Lawther MW

42% Cabernet Franc, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot. 60% whole-bunch vinification. Aged 24 months in new oak barrel (80%), foudre (10%) and amphora (10%) Purple-black colour. Aromatically discreet but dense and refined. Dark fruit and cassis as the wine opens in the glass. Juicy fruit on the palate with fine texture and tannins. Lots of length and finesse, the profile more linear and aérien than 2018. Clean finish, the balance just right. (JL)

DELIVERY INFORMATION

Please note the price indicated by Duty Paid shows the cost of the wine with the applicable taxes (Duty & VAT) added.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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MAX CRITIC SCORE

98.0

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Cru Wine Ltd.

Registered company 08579498. Cru Wine Limited, 109 Hammersmith Road, London, United Kingdom, W14 0QH. VAT Number: GB180547111. All rights reserved.