Le C des Carmes Haut Brion 2022 is the second wine of Château Les Carmes Haut Brion, one of the most distinctive and sought after estates in Bordeaux. Produced in very limited quantities, allocations of both Le C and the grand vin are consistently tight, reflecting the estate’s growing reputation and meticulous vineyard selection.
Unlike many second wines in Bordeaux, Le C des Carmes Haut Brion has its own identity rather than simply being a lighter version of the grand vin. The blend is led by a high proportion of Cabernet Franc, which brings freshness, perfume and precision to the wine. The grand vin itself also contains an unusually large amount of Cabernet Franc by Left Bank standards, but with greater depth, structure and ageing potential due to stricter parcel selection and élevage.
Production remains small by Bordeaux standards, with the grand vin typically around 40,000 bottles annually and Le C produced in similarly limited quantities depending on the vintage and selection.
The 2022 vintage is an exceptional year in Bordeaux, producing wines with both concentration and freshness. At Les Carmes Haut Brion this results in a wine that combines ripe fruit with energy and refinement, showing far more character and complexity than many second wines.
Tasting notes
Le C des Carmes Haut Brion 2022 shows aromas of black cherry, cassis and plum, with notes of violet, graphite and subtle spice.
On the palate the wine is polished and expressive, with fresh dark fruit supported by fine grained tannins and lively acidity. The Cabernet Franc brings floral lift and freshness, leading to a refined and persistent finish with impressive precision.
Critic scores
94 points, James Suckling
93 points, Jane Anson
92–94 points, Jeb Dunnuck
A refined and highly individual Pessac Léognan that combines freshness, texture and aromatic complexity, offering a style that stands apart from more traditional Left Bank Bordeaux.
