Carbonnieux 2018 (750ML)

91-93 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate: "Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Carbonnieux leaps from the glass with vibrant notes of baked blackberries, warm cassis, preserved plum and lavender with touches of Indian spices, forest floor and dried sage. Full-bodied, firm and grainy, the generous fruit has loads of bright, vibrant sparks plus a great line of freshness, finishing mineral tinged." 4/19

90 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2018 Carbonnieux has a very tight bouquet that only starts to reveal itself after 90 minutes, offering blackberry and bilberry fruit and a touch of cedar and mint; I just wish there was more intensity. The palate is better, with blackberry and cedar, and light graphite notes emerging with time. Good freshness here, and satisfying weight toward the finish. All that is missing is a little finesse. Otherwise, this is a decent though not top-grade Carbonnieux." 03/21

92 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com: "Whole lemon, green mango and bell pepper on the nose with a hint of chalk. It’s medium-bodied with bright acidity and a creamy, honeyed texture. Drink or hold." 01/21

94 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "Tightly drawn, with a cloak of alder and juniper over the core of steeped plum and black currant flavors. Lots of tar, bramble, loam and sweet bay accents score the finish, which sports heft and muscle. Superb showing. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2025 through 2038. 12,500 cases made." 03/21

93-95 Points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast: "The wine already has a delicious side that is both refreshing and tangy. Its tight texture is bright, shining with herbs and crisp fruitiness. It exudes freshness on the finish." 04/19