2013 Charmail

An excellent effort from this Haut-Medoc estate, the 2013 Charmail represents 5,000 cases of a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot. Only 40% of the crop made it into the grand vin, which is incredible given the fact that an estate such as this can rarely afford to make these kind of selections. A potential sleeper of the vintage, it reveals a deep ruby/purple color, lots of black currant and blackberry fruit, hints of charcoal and earth, a nice texture, and more depth and length than some of the famous classified growths. This vineyard was harvested between October 1-10, and there are no signs of rot, astringent tannin or excessive acidity. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.

There is a lot to like in the 2013 Charmail. Tobacco, cedar, spices, dried flowers and red cherries meld together nicely in the glass. The 2013 shows good depth and balance in its class, even if some slightly angular edges remain. The blend is 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot.

An excellent effort from this Haut-Medoc estate, the 2013 Charmail represents 5,000 cases of a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot. Only 40% of the crop made it into the grand vin, which is incredible given the fact that an estate such as this can rarely afford to make these kind of selections. A potential sleeper of the vintage, it reveals a deep ruby/purple color, lots of black currant and blackberry fruit, hints of charcoal and earth, a nice texture, and more depth and length than some of the famous classified growths. This vineyard was harvested between October 1-10, and there are no signs of rot, astringent tannin or excessive acidity. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. Aug 2014, www.robertparker.com