2018 Alto de Cantenac Brown
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
I've followed this white wine since it launched in 2011, and it is always a favourite to have in my fridge at home. Majors here on exotic fruits from mango to papaya and passionfruit, with plenty of juice to keep things lively and focused. 10% new oak. From 1.8ha of clay and limestone soils, cooler than the main gravel outcrops of Cantenac Brown. Harvest September 4-5.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider
More reviews and scores
This nearly pure sauvignon blanc shows freshness and density at the same time for the vintage. Full-bodied, exotic and crisp. The clay and limestone soils helped.
The Alto de Cantenac Brown, the château's Sauvignon Blanc/Sémillon blend, is terrific in 2018. Creamy and textured, yet with good freshness, the 2018 is super-expressive in this tasting. Citrus peel, white flowers, orchard and mint are nicely delineated. Aging in larger 400-liter barrels helps preserve energy.
About the producer
Tristan le Lous purchased this Third Growth in 2019, keeping on José Sanfins on as director. There has been significant work in the vineyards here, with a sustainable, organic approach across the 48 hectares.