2022 Carbonnieux

The 2022 Carbonnieux, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, exudes a complex, attractive bouquet of spices, dark berries, flowers and oak. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and fleshy, it's satiny and ample with structured, youthful tannins and a lovely oaky finish. It remains an excellent Carbonnieux that should age gracefully over the years.

The 2022 Château Carbonnieux (50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 5% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) might be the finest I've tasted from this château. Its deep ruby/plum hue is followed by a ripe, seamless Grave revealing ripe black cherry and red plum fruit as well as some smoky tobacco and earthy nuances, medium to full body, a pure, layered mouthfeel, and outstanding length. It's a ripe, opulent, yet nicely balanced 2022 that will have two decades of longevity.

The 2022 Carbonnieux was variable out of barrel. Now in bottle, it seems to have settled down with quite high toned red fruit, but there is a little more VA here than its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with somewhat firm tannins and fine acidity. It's quite sapid, yet missing the same degree of elegance and poise as the best wines in the appellation.