Chateau Les Carmes Haut Brion, 2019

ABOUT THE WINE. Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion is one of the most distinctive estates in Bordeaux, sitting at the northern edge of the Pessac-Léognan appellation. The 2019 vintage is a masterclass in precision and personality. Under the stewardship of Guillaume Pouthier, the estate continues to challenge convention – incorporating whole-bunch fermentation and amphora ageing to deliver a wine of remarkable nuance. The 2019 is a blend of 42% Cabernet Franc, 27% Merlot, and 31% Cabernet Sauvignon – showcasing the unique terroir and the estate’s bold stylistic approach.. TASTING NOTES. The bouquet opens with soaring aromatics – violet, graphite, black cherry, and forest floor – wrapped in subtle oak spice. On the palate, the wine is fresh yet opulent, with fine, chalky tannins and a vibrant core of dark berries, cassis, and plum. Elegant mineral undertones and a savoury edge from the Cabernet Franc lead to a long, harmonious finish. A cerebral, complex wine that rewards both contemplation and cellaring.. FOOD PAIRING. A wine of this calibre deserves thoughtful pairings: consider rosemary-crusted lamb, duck breast with cherry glaze, or wild mushroom risotto. Hard cheeses such as Comté or aged Manchego also make excellent companions.. FRIARWOOD SAYS. We are continually impressed by the evolution of Les Carmes Haut-Brion. The 2019 is one of the finest expressions yet – a Bordeaux for the modern collector, combining classical structure with a resolutely innovative edge. While approachable now with decanting, it will evolve beautifully over the next 15–20 years.