Château de Camensac 2023

Château de Camensac lies in the AOC of Haut-Médoc, on the left bank of the Gironde estuary north of the city of Bordeaux. The Médoc was once marshland, drained from the seventeenth century by Dutch engineers into the gravel banks that now define it. Those deep gravel soils drain well and store daytime heat, which suits Cabernet Sauvignon, the backbone of this blend, ripening its thick skinned, tannic fruit, while Merlot fills out the middle with softer, riper flesh. The estuary moderates the climate and the diurnal range keeps the acidity fresh. The wine is aged eighteen months in French oak barrels, a long élevage that polymerises and softens the Cabernet tannins through steady oxygen exchange and adds cedar, vanilla and spice. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows fresh cherry and blackberry over red currant, wildflowers, tobacco and a cedar note. The palate is medium to full bodied and structured, with firm but ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a savoury, earthy finish in the classic left bank mould. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting ahead. It is a natural partner for roast and grilled red meats, lamb, and mushroom dishes.