2023 Carbonnieux Rouge (Pessac-Leognan)

Medium to medium plus intensity ruby, brambled fruit on the nose, great appellation typicity even on the aromatics, with a balanced welcome and a hint of grilled oak. Cloves, gunsmoke, campfire, sage, slate tannins, the kind of drag through the palate that keeps you engaged, a true En Primeur sample where the construction is clear, and gives the reassurance of a wine with more to say and plenty of ageing ahead of it. Good. 93 points

The 2023 Carbonnieux reveals aromas of dark wild berries, mulberries, cassis, spices and menthol intertwined with violet notes with aeration. Medium to full-bodied, layered and textured with structured tannins, it’s lively and rich with powdery tannins and a fresh, elegant finish. This blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot will be matured in one-third new oak. 91-93 points

The 2023 Carbonnieux is a very pretty, promising wine. The open-knit, floral bouquet is immediately alluring, Medium in body and gracious, but with plenty of depth, Carbonnieux is beautifully refined in 2023. I admire its balance and poise. Hints of spice, crushed flowers and tobacco lift a core of dark blue- and black-toned fruits. 91-93 points

The 2023 Carbonnieux has a relatively light bouquet with black cherries, wild strawberry and earthy notes, and touches of mushroom, though it is not as defined as I would like. The palate is medium-bodied with angular tannins on the entry, light red fruit but it needs more cohesion and flesh on the finish. I am not convinced by this showing I`m afraid. Tasted twice. 84-86 points