2017 C des Carmes Haut Brion, Pessac Leognan

Le C des Carmes is the second label from the innovative Chateau Carmes Haut Brion, a Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend made from a separate plot in Martillac between Haut Bailly and Smith Haut Lafitte. Just like the Grand Vin, winemaker Guillaume Pouthier uses a portion of whole-bunch fermentation and a gentle ‘infusion’ extraction to give the wine beautifully integrated, ultra-fine tannins. Ageing is completed in a combination of clay amphorae and new oak to preserve the purity and energy of the fruit. Incredible value from one of the most exciting, distinctive and in demand Chateau in Bordeaux.

"The 2017 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion has a deep hue in the glass. The powerful nose, when served blind, might come from say, Cornas! It eventually reveals more nuance. The palate is well balanced with fine tannins, quite pure, rounded in style, silky smooth with bulbous, red berry fruit laced with white pepper and thyme on the finish. Very fine." Neal Martin, Vinous.com