In Bond Fine Wine. 2016 Château Tour Carnet, Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France. Fourth Growth • Red Bordeaux in 12x75cl. Top critic score: 92/100 (DEC). Drinking window: 2021–2036. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
One of the oldest estates in the Médoc, Château La Tour Carnet is situated in the Haut Medoc on superb gravel rich soils similar to those of neighbouring Pauillac and Saint-Julien. The south and south-west facing vineyard slopes, layered with deep Garonne and Pyrenean gravels over clay-limestone subsoils, provide ideal conditions for producing ripe, structured and beautifully balanced wines. Acquired by Bernard Magrez in 2000, the estate has been rejuvenated successfully combining its historic Médoc pedigree with a meticulous and uncompromising modern approach to quality. Typically led by Merlot alongside Cabernet Sauvignon, the wines are rich yet polished offering classic Médoc character.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW (LPB) — 91/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 30/11/2018 · Drink 2019-2032
Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 la Tour Carnet has an earthy nose with tobacco and underbrush over a core of warm plums, kirsch and tea. The medium-bodied palate is refreshing, elegant, juicy and soft with a savory finish.
Neal Martin (NM) — 91–93/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 28/04/2017 · Drink 2020-2035
The 2016 La Tour Carnet is a blend of 60% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc that was picked between 4 and 21 October. Matured in 30% new oak, it has more freshness and delineation than the Chateau des Grands Ch'nes that I tasted alongside, touches of blue fruit and floral scents lending it a Margaux-like personality. The palate is smooth and velvety on the entry with fine tanni…
Jeb Dunnuck (JD) — 90/100 · JebDunnuck.com, 28/02/2019 · Drink 2019-2034
From a terrific estate that always delivers the goods, and usually for a great price, the 2016 Chateau La Tour Carnet has good ripeness and exhibits ample black and blue fruits, hints of violets and flowers, medium-bodied richness, and outstanding balance. It shows the vintage beautifully and will keep for 10-15 years or so.