2021 Château Cantemerle

The 2021 Cantemerle is floral, lifted and very pretty. Crushed flowers, red-toned fruit, spice, mocha and licorice take shape in a wine that impresses with its delineated, persistent personality. All the elements are nicely balanced. There is a bit of tightness on the finish, but overall, this is nicely done.

- Antonio Galloni (12/2023)

Attractive herb and capsicum notes lend freshness to the red currants and plums. Medium body on the palate with a very fluid center palate. Crunchy, elegant and juicy finish with good length. Has plenty of appeal now. Drink now.

- Zekun Shuai (07/2024)

The 2021 Château Cantemerle checks in as 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, and the rest 5% Petit Verdot that was raised for 12 months in French oak (40% new). It's a juicy, medium-bodied, more red-fruited effort that has some classic tobacco and underbrush notes, juicy yet integrated acidity, fine tannins, and a good finish. It's a satisfying, enjoyable, well-made Haut-Médoc that will drink nicely for a decade if well stored. (04/2024)

The 2021 Cantemerle has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It flies out of the glass with notes of juicy raspberries and Morello cherries, leading to wafts of cinnamon and roses. Medium-bodied, the palate is elegant and refreshing, with minerally sparks to the red berry flavors and a soft-textured finish. (04/2024)

An old-school version, with a cedary thread that runs from start to finish, along with savory tobacco leaf and dried currant fruit accents. A touch austere on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2033. 25,000 cases made.

- J.M.

The 2021 Cantemerle opens in the glass with notes of cassis, dark berries, mint and baking chocolate. This is medium-bodied, with supple, powdery tannins, lively acids and a delicate core of fruit, concluding with a minty, somewhat herbaceous finish.

- William Kelley (02/2024)