Château Carbonnieux Pessac-Léognan rouge 2021 - Grand Cru Classé

Owned since 1956 by the charming Perrin family, this great classic of the Pessac-Léognan appellation captivates not only with its production volume—especially for white wines—but also with the consistency and distinctiveness of its style. The very pale whites are fresh, lively, and exceptionally refined, but since 2009 they have gained in richness and body. The reds have gained significantly in power and density and rival the very best.

Thirty-five percent new oak was used in the aging of this cru classé, which makes the most of this challenging vintage. Notes of fresh blackcurrant brighten a smoky, roasted nose. The aging process pleasantly coats a graceful, fresh palate, framed by fine tannins that allow the red fruit to shine through in a lively, relaxed finish. Well-balanced and suitable for moderate aging. 2025–2029

Brothers Éric and Philibert Perrin, along with their sister Christine Lescuyer, continue to develop this important estate, which has evolved considerably over the past decade, consistently producing delicious wine. The new generation is taking the reins; the 2019 vintage was brilliantly crafted by the young Andréa Perrin. Elegant and refreshing, the whites have gained in expressiveness while developing more body on the palate. They do not age indefinitely, and we recommend enjoying them within the first five years after bottling. However, a few exceptional vintages may hold magical surprises with extended aging. The reds—serious and consistent, though often austere in their youth—have also gained in body density. They never taste as good as they do between five and ten years of age. The vineyard is continuing its restructuring program by replacing the Sauvignon Blanc vines on the fine gravel terroirs with Cabernet Sauvignon.

Owned by the Perrin family, this large estate has produced a flawless and impressive wine. The rich tannins and dense black fruit are complemented by ripe, juicy acidity and spices from the oak aging. It needs time to age and will be ready to drink starting in 2028. — Roger Voss

Carbonnieux 2021 is an absolute delight. It offers an exotic blend of dark-fleshed fruits, espresso, licorice, cloves, leather, and lavender. Deep, flavorful, and highly expressive, the 2021 has so much potential and so much to offer. Cabernet Sauvignon takes center stage, which is reflected in the wine’s overall structure and the character of its aromas. 2028–2046

The inviting bouquet of the 2021 Carbonnieux reveals hints of blackcurrant, blackberry, and licorice root. Harmonious in character, the wine is supported by velvety tannins that lend it good body and highlight its elegance. Charm and flavor abound in the 2021 vintage—well done! 2025–2036

The nose is fresh and fruity, with good definition, a touch of intensity, and a slightly airy quality upon first inhalation. It reveals notes of fresh and ripe wild blackcurrants, small black berries, and, more subtly, elegant mineral and graphite notes, combined with hints of violet, touches of camphor and lily, as well as a subtle varietal note, almost reminiscent of mocha and Madagascar pepper. The palate is beautifully fresh and juicy, offering a lovely tart structure, tension, energy, dynamism, good definition, refined concentration, a finely grained texture, and a subtle hint of herbal infusion. On the palate, this wine expresses notes of fresh, juicy wild blackcurrant and wild blackberry, with a lighter hint of violet, combined with touches of small black berries, hints of graphite and camphor, very subtle hints of zan and almond, as well as a subtle, almost briny and sap-like note. Good length. The tannins are elegant, savory, and smooth. The bitter notes are well-balanced.