Château Carbonnieux Pessac-Léognan Blanc 2023

With a wine history dating back to the 12th century, Chateau Carbonnieux is one of the most historic estates in the entire Bordeaux region. Perhaps more well-known for their whites (although they produce very good reds as well), Carbonnieux has old vines of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon ranging from 30-60 years. The 2023 is made of 68% Sauvignon and 32% Semillon, and spent 10 months in oak barrels (25% new oak), although it does not taste oaky. Dry, crisp and classy, we found lilac, lemon, grapefruit and green melons on the front of the nose and palate followed by hints of passion fruit, meyer lemon and ultra subtle vanilla as the wine finishes with fresh, elegant flavors. Known for its aging potential, Carbonnieux is a must-have for serious collectors. 

Château Carbonnieux white is a legendary wine. It is said that in the 18th century it was introduced to the Sultan of Constantinople’s palace because of its clarity and was called “mineral water from Carbonnieux”, thus defying the Islamic law. The clay–limestone of Garonne gravel found in the Pessac-Léognan Appellation certainly produces the best dry white wines in the Bordeaux region. When young, Carbonnieux white wines are delightfully refreshing and pure with a fruity, floral intensity. When mature they develop hints of dried and candied fruits giving scope for a large range of gastronomic pairings. The batches which will form part of this “cru classé” will be blended so as to induce an excellent complicity between the grape varieties. The chosen Semillon grapes will add structure to the liveliness of the Sauvignon grapes by giving them roundness and volume on the palate.

Serve with all raw or cooked fish, shellfish, foie gras, any poultry or white meat, sweetbread, spiced dishes (curry, tajine,…), cheeses and charcuterie, especially goat's milk cheeses and cured hams.