| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Left Bank > Graves |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
Exhibiting aromas of earthy black fruits, bay leaf, burning embers and forest floor, the 2019 Carbonnieux is medium to full-bodied, rich and enveloping, with a broad attack that segues into a fleshy core of fruit framed by ripe acids and fine, powdery tannins that assert themselves gently on the finish. Drink 2025-2045.
The 2019 Carbonnieux has quite a showy, pastille-like bouquet with black cherries, blueberry and light violet scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, quite plush and showy with a touch of white pepper on the finish. This should age well in bottle although it fails to replicate its deeply impressive showing after bottling. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. Drink 2024-2040.
Composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2019 Carbonnieux was harvested from the 18th of September to the 10th of October. Yields were 45 hectoliters per hectare this year. The alcohol came in at 14.5% with a pH of 3.69. It is being aged in French oak barrels, 40% new, for an anticipated 12-15 months. Deep garnet-purple in color, it prances out of the glass with invigorating scents of fresh redcurrants, black cherries and cassis with touches of bay leaves, pencil shavings and cloves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has impressive vivacity with loads of crunchy black fruits and a refreshing line, framed by grainy tannins, finishing with a minty lift.
I am so pleased that the 2019 Carbonnieux has retained the engaging aromatics that I found from the barrel sample: copious blackberry, raspberry, incense and light violet aromas soar from the glass. The palate is very well balanced with fine-grained tannins, and much more precise than recent vintages, leading to a harmonious, silky-smooth, almost tender finish. More polished than recent vintages, this Carbonnieux comes highly recommended. Drink 2023-2040.
The 2019 Carbonnieux was picked 18 September to 10 October at 45hl/ha, matured in 40% new oak. It has an expressive bouquet with lively blackberry, bilberry and brown spices, all well defined and "natural". The palate is silky smooth on the entry with plush black fruit laced with black pepper and allspice, a touch of clove towards the seductive finish. This is a more sensual Carbonnieux than I am accustomed to. Maybe I hope it will develop more grip, but it certainly will appeal to those seeking a plush Pessac-Léognan. I wonder about its longevity vis-a-vis its peers. Tasted three times, later samples showing a little more charm and flesh.
