2021 Carbonnieux
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Light nose. Rather dull. Inexpressive. Acid but not much else. But then it opened out in the glass. Good finish. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux
More reviews and scores
Ripe red and black fruits, tobacco, and loamy earth, as well as some meaty nuances, all emerge from the 2021 Château Carbonnieux, a medium-bodied, round, supple, enjoyable Péssac based on 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
The 2021 Carbonnieux offers tightly wound black fruit, damp earth and light marine notes on the nose, although it needs a little more cohesion and vigor. The palate is medium-bodied, with firm tannins balanced by a crisp line of acidity, but it hasn't really developed on the finish. Today, it feels quite conservative and misses the persistency I was hoping for.
The 2021 Carbonnieux is an absolute delight. If offers up an exotic mélange of dark-fleshed fruit, espresso, licorice, cloves, leather and lavender. Deep, savory and super-expressive, the 2021 has so much going on, so much to offer. Cabernet Sauvignon takes center stage, and that very much comes through in the wine's flavor personality and overall structural feel.
About the producer
This estate is one of Bordeaux’s oldest, with vines planted here since at least the 13th century. Over three generations, the Perrin family has completely renovated the estate and raised quality here significantly.