Les Carmes Haut Brion 2008

Slightly shorter and less impressive than it was from barrel, the very good 2008 is a mid-weight Graves revealing a dark plum/garnet color along with sweet earthy, herbal, tobacco leaf, sweet and sour cherry and crushed rock characteristics. This medium-bodied, spicy 2008 tails off in the mouth. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.

Tasted ex-château and single blind in Southwold. Having adored this wine out of barrel, I am pleased to report that is excelled in blind conditions. It has fine definition on the nose with blackberry, cassis and blueberry. The palate has a sweet succulent entry, rounded in the mouth with beautifully integrated new oak. Very focused, silky smooth oaky finish. This is tailored in a modern fashion, but it is very classy. It will be interesting to see how well it ages. Tasted January 2012.

Made in an ethereal, lighter style than usual, the 2008 Les Carmes Haut-Brion offers up notes of menthol, unsmoked cigar tobacco, and sweet red and black currants. Medium-bodied, pure, delicate, and full of charm, it only lacks the texture and depth one expects in the best vintages like 2008. Drink it over the next 12-14 years.