P13. Château Cantenac Brown, Margaux
“The 2020 Cantenac Brown is a knock‑out. A Margaux of towering intensity, the 2020 is dense and vertical at the same time. It’s a combination that works so well. Dark cherry, plum, chocolate, new leather, licorice and cloves all saturate the palate. There's real depth and concentration here from the summer heat and small size of the berries, but at the same time the 2020 has more freshness and energy than some recent years. There have been quite a few changes here in recent years, starting with a new parcel on the Margaux plateau that entered the blend in 2019 and move towards lower toast levels in the barrels. Cantenac Brown remains a potent, opulent Margaux, but 2020 has a measure of classicism as well. Drinking Window: 2026 ‑ 2040.” 97 pts, Vinous 382025, 482925 6 bottle limit $135 P14. Château Les Carmes Haut‑Brion, Pessac‑Léognan “The 2020 Les Carmes Haut‑Brion is a total stunner. For the first time I can remember, Les Carmes Haut‑Brion marries all of its elements so well that nothing stands out. In the past, the high percentage of Franc and/or the whole clusters were evident. The 2020 is the first modern vintage in which all the elements are so well balanced. Dark red/ purplish fruit, rose petal, mint, lavender, dried herbs and incense all build in a ravishing Pessac‑Léognan that will take your breath away. The 2020 is 40% Cabernet Franc, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Merlot, picked between September 14 to 26, which is early here. Whole cluster was 55%. Vinification took place over five weeks, using very gentle extraction, with no pumpovers or punchdowns. Aging was 80% new oak, 11% 18hL foudres and 9% amphorae. In tasting, the 2020 is simply magnificent. There are no soloists, just the most exceptionally vivid, breathtaking orchestra imaginable. The 2020 is a masterpiece from Technical Director Guillaume Pouthier and his team. Don't miss it! Drinking Window: 2030 ‑ 2070.” 6 bottle limit $250 P15. Carruades de Lafite, Pauillac “So perfumed and subtle with roses, lavender, sage, and currants. Medium‑bodied. So much Spanish cedar, cigar box, currants, fresh tobacco and spice. Classic Lafite character. 52% cabernet sauvignon, 42% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 3% merlot. Better after 2028.” 96 pts, James Suckling 465705 6 bottle limit $525 100 pts, Vinous 382075, 457505
2020 BORDEAUX
11
Powered by FlippingBook