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Tour Carnet 2012

Haut Medoc, Fourth Growth

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Tasting Notes

Part of the empire of Bernard Magrez, this blend of 61% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc is a sleeper of the vintage in 2012. Its excellent dense ruby/purple color, sweet cassis, black cherry fruit, supple tannins, medium to full body and attractive, long finish make for an impressive wine that should drink nicely for 10-15 years. It’s already accessible. This is another wine that performed dramatically better from the bottle than from barrel tastings.

Score: 90

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2015-2030 01 April 2015

One of the better values in classified growth Bordeaux over many recent vintages has been La Tour Carnet, which proprietor Bernard Magrez has resurrected to a very high class performance. However, the 2012 La Tour Carnet did not impress me nearly as much as earlier vintages. This deep ruby/purple-hued effort reveals a certain austerity and astringent tannin despite the high Merlot content (about 66% with the rest mostly Cabernet Sauvignon). It is an earthy, angular, medium-bodied, slightly astringent effort. Certainly elevage in the cellars will soften this cuvee somewhat, but for now, it looks like it needs several years of cellaring. It should keep for 12-15 years. (88+ Points)

Score: 86 - 88

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2013-2028 26 April 2013

A wine from this appellation with some balance and harmony with medium body, medium tannins and a berry, mineral and light hazelnut character. Refined.

Score: 88 - 89

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 21 April 2013

Very dark purplish with a strong blue note. Dense, interesting nose. The fruit and tannins seem relatively ripe here. Complex, complete, while without quite the savour and sap of a top growth but very well done. Far from opulent, mind you!

Score: 16 - 17

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2022-2032 18 April 2013

A toasted, modern style, with dark ganache, blueberry and espresso notes leading the way, backed by plum and blackberry fruit at the core. Obvious, with plenty of stuffing in reserve.

Score: 87 - 90

James Molesworth, Wine Spectator 08 April 2013