Wines Haut-Médoc Château La Tour Carnet - 2022

Château La Tour Carnet 2022 is an impressive red from the renowned Haut-Médoc appellation, situated within the prestigious Bordeaux region. As a Grand Cru Classé, this château boasts a rich history and consistently produces wines of great distinction. The 2022 vintage is crafted predominantly from the classic Médoc blend, favouring Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, although exact percentages may vary from year to year. The terroir here is defined by deep gravel soils overlaying limestone, perfect for achieving the desired ripeness and tannic structure in the grapes. The winemaking process involves careful hand-picking, traditional vinification in temperature-controlled vats, and maturation in French oak barrels, many of which are new, lending finesse and complex aromas.

The Haut-Médoc stretches along the Left Bank of the Gironde, benefitting from a temperate maritime climate influenced by proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. This moderates temperature extremes and reduces frost risk, helping grapes achieve optimal maturity while retaining freshness. Its gravelly soils ensure excellent drainage, promoting deep root development and concentrating flavours in the fruit. Historically, the Médoc is at the heart of Bordeaux’s international fame, with estates like Château La Tour Carnet playing a role in the celebrated 1855 classification.

For food pairings, this wine excels alongside classic regional fare. Traditional Bordeaux dishes such as entrecôte marchand de vin (ribeye steak with red wine sauce), roast duck breast, or a lamb rack with herbs will complement the wine’s full body and structured tannins. For a more rustic experience, try it with a wild mushroom fricassée or aged hard cheeses like Comté.

To best appreciate its expressive bouquet of dark fruits, cedar, and subtle spice, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving. The optimal serving temperature is between 16 and 18°C. This allows the wine’s aromas to unfold fully while maintaining elegance on the palate. While accessible in its youth, this château is also known for its aging potential, so consider cellaring a few bottles for future enjoyment.