2019 Cantelys
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Tasting notes
From an estate just beside Smith Haut Lafitte, the 2019 Château Cantelys gives up a ruby/plum hue to go with mulled red and black fruits, spicy oak, tobacco, and loamy earth. This medium-bodied, ripe, supple, rounded, and nicely textured 2019 is ideal for drinking any time over the coming 10-15 years. The blend is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Lawther MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
Exhibiting aromas of jammy berries and cherries mingled with notions of chocolate and spices, the 2019 Cantelys is medium to full-bodied, with a fruity, supple, succulent profile that's giving and immediate. This estate is owned by the Cathiard family of Smith Haut Lafitte.
The 2019 Cantelys seems to have calmed down a little on the nose since I tasted it last year, still offering black currant and black plum aromas, yet a little more refined. The palate is medium-bodied and fleshy, with menthol-tinged red fruit, fine grip, and notes of Earl Grey and tobacco toward the finish, which is just a bit drier than I recall. Fine.
The 2019 Cantelys is a very pretty, effusive wine. Sweet pipe tobacco, cedar, mint and dried flowers give this vibrant tons of nuance and character. There is a bit more ripeness and generosity than the norm here, not a bad thing for this château and wine. Super-ripe red berry fruit, cinnamon, rose petal and earthy notes linger.