Chateau Haut Brion "Les Carmes" 2022

Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion 2022 - Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France

Producer's Notes: 

Beneath the classic elegance of Pessac-Léognan, the grand vin of Les Carmes unfolds a unique composition. Cabernet Franc, in an unprecedented proportion, offers a silky power, echoed by the intensity of Cabernet Sauvignon. On this structure, Merlot develops a round and refined fruit character: the balance is perfect, guaranteeing a style that is as complex as it is delicious.

What we say:

A striking and increasingly celebrated Bordeaux from the uniquely urban property of Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion, the 2022 vintage is widely regarded as one of the estate’s finest releases - expressive, refined and beautifully balanced. It opens with layered aromas of violet, iris and floral perfume alongside ripe blackcurrant, mulberry, liquorice and graphite. On the palate the wine is medium-to-full-bodied with concentrated dark fruit framed by bright acidity, velvety, finely structured tannins and a long, saline finish. Crafted with substantial whole-bunch fermentation and matured in a mix of new oak, foudres and amphorae, it’s both distinctive and classically Pessac-Léognan in depth and poise. 

Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc 40%, Cabernet Sauvignon 34%, Merlot 26% 

Style: Dry red, structured Bordeaux Grand Vin

Drink window: 2032–2062 

Perfect for: Grilled ribeye, roast lamb, rich stews, aged hard cheeses, refined French cuisine

Critic scores:

100 - Wine Advocate (Yohan Castaing) 

99–100 - James Suckling 

98–100 - Jeb Dunnuck 

98 - Decanter 

97–99 - The Wine Independent 

96 - Jane Anson (JancisRobinson.com) 

Dark fruit and floral finesse meet thrilling energy and precision - a benchmark 2022 from Les Carmes Haut-Brion built for serious ageing and deep complexity.