The 2014 Les Carmes Haut-Brion is once again a real showstopper. One of the most unique wines in Pessac because of its high amount of Cabernet Franc, the Carmes Haut-Brion offers up a compelling mélange of dark red stone fruits, pomegranate, smoke, tobacco and licorice. The late harvest has resulted in a deep, ripe, super-concentrated wine endowed with tremendous depth. There may be a little freshness missing, but that is a small critique for a wine that delivers so much pleasure. The blend is 54% Cabernet Franc, 32% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, all aged in oak, but with some influence of 500L tonneaux and 12HL casks. Simon Blanchard is the Consulting Oenologist. Tasted two times.

The 2014 Les Carmes Haut-Brion has a concentrated bouquet with blackberry, bilberry and light brine-like aromas. There is just a touch of warmth from the alcohol that detracts from the delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, rounded and supple in the mouth with a touch of white pepper and clove towards the comparatively conservative finish. Fine. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

Tasted blind. Bright, healthy, deep crimson. Stony nose with masses of ripe fruit. Lots of flesh and interest. Good balance and interest. (JR)

54% Cabernet Franc, 32% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon. 50% whole-bunch vinification. Aged 24 months in new oak barrel (80%), foudre (10%) and amphora (10%) Deep colour to the rim. More complexity aromatically with red- and dark-fruit notes and a hint of mint and herbs. Lovely balance, the palate sweet but lithe and fresh at the same time. Texture and tannins smooth. Good density of fruit. Touch of oak but overall, harmonious. Up a gear from previous years. (JL)

Juicy, supple and perfumed with a strong floral character. The flavour profile seems out of place for most 2014 Bordeaux. Has this got some Malbec in, perhaps? (RH)

New regime but still in the old winery. Tasted blind. Very dark colour. Both ripe and leafy. Firm, chewy tannins. Not charming but there’s plenty to chew on with good balance between fruit and structure. (JH)