Chateau Carbonnieux 2022 Rouge Pessac-Léognan Graves

A Grand Cru Classé de Graves, Château Carbonnieux's 2022 red wine reflects its esteemed terroir—deep gravel soils and structured vineyard sites. The blend is approximately:

• 50% Cabernet Sauvignon

• 40% Merlot

• 5% Cabernet Franc

• 5% Petit Verdot
  

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: A refined bouquet layered with cassis, blueberry, and delicate floral elements like violet and iris, enhanced by hyacinth, rose petals, and subtle licorice and tobacco nuances

• Palate: Medium to full-bodied and elegantly balanced, showing a textured richness:

  • Dark fruit: black cherry, plum, blueberry

  • Spice/harmony: mocha, leather, nutmeg, tobacco, with a hint of gravelly minerality

  • Tannins: velvety and supple, contributing to a long, focused, and persistent finish

Ratings

Critics are impressed:

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: ~93 points — “concentrated and fleshy, velvety tannins and excellent concentration.” 

• Wine Spectator: 93 points — praises its dark fruit and earthy complexity 

• Vinous: 93 points — highlights its “deep and savory” depth 

• James Suckling: 92 points — “soft and juicy with medium body and velvety tannins.” 

• Decanter reviewers also praise its structure, spice, and “dense yet refreshing” character 

Summary & Potential

This is a serious and age-worthy Bordeaux. It combines ripe, elegant macerated fruit with saline, smoky, and floral layers, all held together by refined tannins. It’s drinking well now but is built to mature beautifully—optimal drinking likely from 2028 to 2040+.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Excellent with classic red Bordeaux fare: grilled lamb, duck breast, game & mushrooms, or aged cheeses—think dishes that mirror its complexity and savory richness.

Quick Highlights