Château Carbonnieux Rouge, Grand Cru Classé de Graves, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France 2019

The history of Château Carbonnieux, one of the oldest estates in Bordeaux, extends over almost eight centuries, and its vineyard over a hundred hectares. Under the stewardship of the Perrin family since 1956, the whole vineyard is located around the castle at the top of a superb gravel hill, and all the wines produced bear the Pessac-Léognan AOP. The vines cultivated in a sustainable and eco-responsible agriculture are devoted to exclusively producing red and dry white wines, both of which are qualified as Grands Crus Classés de Graves. Recognized as a Grand Cru Classé in 1959, the estate is renowned for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and its unique blend of red Bordeaux varietals.

• WINEMAKER: Andréa Perrin

• FARMING: Sustainable, HVE 3

• VARIETY: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot

• TERROIR: The estate's 59 hectares of red grape varieties are situated on a mosaic of terroirs, including clay-limestone soils and Gunzian gravels, within the Pessac-Léognan appellation.

• VINIFICATION: Manual harvesting occurred between September 18 and October 10, 2019. Fermentation took place in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats for 9 days. The wine underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged for 12 to 15 months in Bordeaux barrels, 40% of which were new.

• AGING: Aged in Bordeaux barrels (40% new) for 12 to 15 months.

• TASTING NOTES: The 2019 vintage presents a deep garnet-red hue. Aromas of blackberries, raspberries, and subtle floral notes lead to a palate that is both structured and elegant, with fine tannins and a long, harmonious finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Pairs well with grilled red meats, game, and aged cheeses.

• SCORES: 94 points – James Suckling