Château Cantemerle Haut Medoc 2017

92-94. Barrel Sample. Dry tannins and juicy fruit give this wine its structure while also bringing out the freshness of the vintage. There is a fine, juicy character that is already attractive. Drink from 2023.

A real sleeper, the 2017 Cantemerle has turned out beautifully. Cedar, sweet tobacco, menthol, licorice and incense add pretty aromatic top notes in this super-refined Haut-Mecloc. More than anything else, the 2017 stands out for its exceptional balance and alluring personality. This is a terrific showing.

Barley, walnut-shell and blackberry character. Full body. Chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. A little lean and tight now and needs some time to soften. Better after 2020.

Ripe and forward in feel, with a fun blast of black cherry pate de fruit and plum compote notes. A light anise and apple wood frame keeps this in check through the finish. Shows good freshness despite the ebullient persona. Should knit up a bit with moderate cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2028. 30,000 cases made.

Impressive notes of cassis, blueberries, violets and cedary spice emerge from the 2017 Château Cantemerle, which shows the focused, mid-weight, yet balanced style of the vintage. It's nicely balanced, moderately concentrated, and has a good finish.

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Cantemerle is sporting a lot of oak, herbs and tilled soil over a cassis and baked plums core plus pencil lead and chargrill touches. The palate is medium-bodied, firm and grainy with nice freshness and good length.