2022 Le C des Carmes de Haut-Brion

Excellent purity of fruit and brightness to this wine with a medium to full body, crushed stone and fresh acidity. Tannins are open with a creamy texture. 30% whole cluster. Nicely framed. Vineyard here is close to Smith Haut Lafitte. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 39% merlot and 1% petit verdot. (2023)

The 2022 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion is composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot, picked at 14.1% potential alcohol and with 30% whole-bunch fermentation. It is currently aging 20% in new barrels, 70% in 30hl casks, and 10% in amphoras. Deep garnet-purple in color, it explodes from the glass with bombastic scents of kirsch, juicy blackberries, raspberries, and blackcurrant jelly, followed by hints of roses, star anise, crushed rocks, and underbrush. The medium-bodied palate is very light on its feet, with lovely tension and chewy tannins supporting the bright, vivacious black and red berry layers, finishing long and lifted. pH 3.60. (05/2023)