2018 Carbonnieux

Honeysuckle and lemongrass richness set against slate and wet stone minerality. I love how Carbonnieux manages to keep freshness even in warm vintages, and this is absolutely one to look out for in 2018. No need to serve too cold either, as the subtleties are released when serving at just under room temperature rather than straight out of the fridge. I last drank this wine just a few days ago, when speaking to a group about the links between Bordeaux and California, because it is an estate that was famously visited by Thomas Jefferson.

I loved the 2018 Château Carbonnieux. This Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated Pessac sports a deep purple hue as well as ripe, sexy aromas and flavors of blackcurrants, chocolate, leafy tobacco, and earth. Beautifully textured, with silky tannins and outstanding balance, it's already drinking brilliantly yet has a solid 10-15 years of longevity ahead of it.

The 2018 Carbonnieux has a very tight bouquet that only starts to reveal itself after 90 minutes, offering blackberry and bilberry fruit and a touch of cedar and mint; I just wish there was more intensity. The palate is better, with blackberry and cedar, and light graphite notes emerging with time. Good freshness here, and satisfying weight toward the finish. All that is missing is a little finesse. Otherwise, this is a decent though not top-grade Carbonnieux. (Drink between 2024-2042) (NM)