Château Carbonnieux, Pessac-Léognan Blanc (Bordeaux, France) 2022 ($50)

Château Carbonnieux Blanc is a superb example of the vivacity and complexity that can be found in 2022 Pessac-Léognan whites. The hot summer resulted in lower yields of intensely flavored grapes. Ten months of barrel age adds to the complexity of this wine, which is comprised of Sauvignon Blanc (65%) and Sémillon (35%). The nose is fresh and forward with tantalizing aromas of peaches, pineapple, grapefruit and lemon zest backed by hints of herbs and spices. Richly textured but still lively on the palate, it offers layers of ripe peach, pineapple and citrus zest plus herbs, vanilla and spices. It will provide delicious drinking for another 5 years and beyond.
92 Wayne Belding