The 2021 Château La Tour Carnet is a classified growth from the Haut-Médoc appellation in Bordeaux. Ranked as a Fourth Growth (Quatrième Cru Classé) in the historic 1855 Classification, Château La Tour Carnet is one of the oldest estates in the Médoc, with a history dating back to the 12th century. Today, the estate is owned by Bernard Magrez and is recognised for producing structured, age-worthy wines that reflect the character of Bordeaux's Left Bank.

The vineyard is situated on gravelly soils with clay and limestone subsoils, providing ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These well-drained terroirs contribute to the wine's balance of fruit concentration, freshness and tannic structure. The 2021 growing season was cooler and more classical in style, producing wines with lower alcohol, vibrant acidity and a greater emphasis on elegance and terroir expression.

The wine opens with aromas of blackcurrant, red cherry and plum, complemented by notes of cedar, graphite, tobacco leaf and subtle spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and refined, with fresh dark fruit supported by lively acidity and finely structured tannins. The finish is persistent and savoury, revealing mineral nuances that are characteristic of the Haut-Médoc.

Within the market, the 2021 Château La Tour Carnet represents a traditional Left Bank Bordeaux, combining the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the accessibility provided by Merlot. The estate has long been regarded as one of the more approachable classified growths, often offering strong value relative to other wines carrying the 1855 classification. The 2021 vintage particularly appeals to those who appreciate freshness, balance and classical Bordeaux proportions

The 2021 La Tour Carnet is a beautiful, expressive wine. Lifted aromatics convey freshness in a mid-weight Tour Carnet that is all class. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, white pepper, rose petal and blood orange give this effusive Haut-Médoc tons of charm. This is one of the hidden gems of the year. - Vinous

A linear and typical Medoc here with blackcurrants and hints of spearmint on the nose and palate. Firm, polished and lightly velvety tannins. - James Suckling