La Tour Carnet 2016

The 2016 La Tour Carnet is a blend of 60% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc that was picked between 4 and 21 October. Matured in 30% new oak, it has more freshness and delineation than the Château des Grands Chênes that I tasted alongside, touches of blue fruit and floral scents lending it a Margaux-like personality. The palate is smooth and velvety on the entry with fine tannin, lush and precocious yet maintaining fine freshness and precision on the finish. Its texture is nigh irresistible. It is excellent, though will it surpass the 2015?

For a Haut-Médoc, this has an impressive depth of blackberry and blueberry character, together with a fine vanilla-oak note that beautifully complements the supple and finely nuanced, medium body. I love the crisp and delicately herbal, dry finish. A blend of 62 per cent merlot, 35 per cent cabernet sauvignon, two per cent petit verdot and one per cent cabernet franc. Better from 2020.

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 la Tour Carnet has an earthy nose with tobacco and underbrush over a core of warm plums, kirsch and tea. The medium-bodied palate is refreshing, elegant, juicy and soft with a savory finish. 2019 - 2032

From a terrific estate that always delivers the goods, and usually for a great price, the 2016 Château La Tour Carnet has good ripeness and exhibits ample black and blue fruits, hints of violets and flowers, medium-bodied richness, and outstanding balance. It shows the vintage beautifully and will keep for 10-15 years or so. Drink 2019-2034.