2021 Capbern Gasqueton

Checking in as a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, the 2021 Château Capbern is terrific and an undeniable success in the vintage. Beautiful cassis, red cherries, savory herbs, and camphor notes all flow to a medium-bodied, round, charming, elegant 2021 that shines for its overall balance and purity. Give it just 2-3 years in the cellar, and it will evolve for 15 years or more if well stored.

The 2021 Capbern, bottled in May 2023, has a clean and precise nose that unfolds with slightly more red fruit than I observed en primeur. The oak here is nicely integrated with a background scent of black olive. The palate is well-balanced with a soft entry. This is clearly going to be one of the more approachable recent vintages from this Saint-Estèphe estate. Today it possesses fine, light tannins and modest weight, revealing more black fruit mixed with cedar and black pepper toward the finish. Quite understated, drink this over the next 15 to 20 years.

The 2021 Capbern is gorgeous. Bright and floral, with mid-weight structure, this Capbern is terrific. The cool style of the year works quite well for this site. Crushed flowers, spice, cedar and worn-in leather linger on the articulate finish. Tasted two times.