Good plummy red, fragrant, attractively herbaceous berry fruit, finely extracted and balanced wine in an elegant, polished style. Drink 2013-18. 16+

Made in an ethereal, lighter style than usual, the 2008 Les Carmes Haut-Brion offers up notes of menthol, unsmoked cigar tobacco, and sweet red and black currants. Medium-bodied, pure, delicate, and full of charm, it only lacks the texture and depth one expects in the best vintages like 2008. Drink 2009-2023. 88-90 points