Château Les Carmes Haut Brion 2025

Château Les Carmes Haut Brion lies within the city limits of Bordeaux in the AOC Pessac-Léognan, an urban estate rebuilt around a new winery opened in 2016. Its Graves terroir of sand and gravel over clay drains well and warms quickly, and the surrounding river arm tempers the climate. Unusually for Bordeaux, the blend is led by Cabernet Franc, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in support, and the estate uses a high proportion of whole bunches in fermentation. Retaining stems adds aromatic complexity, fine grained tannin and a savoury, peppery lift, while the 18 months in oak softens the structure through gentle oxygen exchange and folds in cedar and spice. The wine is deep and complex on the nose, showing pomegranate, blackcurrant and black cherry over iris, peony, liquorice and crushed pepper. The palate is structured and fresh, the whole bunch character giving a silky yet firm tannic frame and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead, with roast lamb, duck or earthy mushroom dishes.