2013 Haut Marbuzet

A disappointment for this property. This simple, one-dimensional wine shows modest red currant and cherry fruit and loamy soil notes, but narrows out in the mouth and finishes with excessive tannin, especially compared to its fruit elements.

The 2013 Haut-Marbuzet is one of the juicier wines of the vintage. Dark red cherry, plum, smoke and cedar notes meld together as this exuberant, flashy St. Estèphe opens up in the glass. Sweet tobacco, savory herbs and licorice linger on the finish. The 2013 is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, which means a little more Cabernet Sauvignon than the more typical 50-55%. The 2013 is currently aging in 80% new barrels. According to proprietor (Dubosq), the wine might see a little less time in barrel than is normally the case. This is a terrific showing. Tasted twice.