2013 Chateau Les Carmes Haut-Brion 6 bottles case

The 2013 Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion is a refined expression from one of Bordeaux’s most historic estates, located in Pessac-Léognan at the heart of the Graves. Founded in the 16th century by the Carmelite order, the property shares a deep connection with its illustrious neighbour Château Haut-Brion. Today, under modern stewardship, Les Carmes Haut-Brion has emerged as one of the most distinctive voices of Bordeaux, uniting centuries of tradition with cutting-edge precision in the cellar and vineyard.

The 2013 vintage reflects the challenges of a cooler, wetter year in Bordeaux, yet the estate’s meticulous care yielded a wine of elegance and character. The blend is composed of 55% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, vinified in small vats and matured in French oak barrels, half of which were new. This high proportion of Cabernet Franc, a hallmark of the château, imparts aromatic lift and remarkable freshness.

In the glass, the wine shows a medium ruby colour and a bouquet of redcurrant, cherry, and wild strawberry, lifted by floral notes of violet and peony. Secondary and tertiary aromas unfold with cedar, graphite, tobacco leaf, forest floor, and hints of spice, giving depth to its more delicate fruit profile. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and graceful, with supple tannins, vibrant acidity, and a finish marked by elegance and persistence rather than sheer power.

Critics have noted that the 2013 Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion outperformed many peers in this challenging vintage, praised for its precision, freshness, and singular personality. A wine of charm and subtlety, it is already drinking beautifully yet will continue to reward enjoyment over the coming decade.