2022, Château Haut-Marbuzet, SAINT-ESTÈPHE, Cru BourgeoisBordeaux Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc. Owned by the Duboscq family since 1952. Haut Marbuzet's exceptional terroir extends close to Chteau Montrose and Chteau Cos dEstournel. Gravel, clay and limestone soil, facing east over the Gironde, provide the vineyard with the perfect balance between warmth and humidity. The 2022 Haut Marbuzet is terrific. Ripe red toned fruit, blood orange, spice, mint, liquorice, mocha and

This shows a slight change since the mid-1990s with less Cabernet Sauvignon and more Merlot planted today

Velvety (Vélouté) mouth feel on the attack

with slate and liquorice

This estate's shift in the direction of gentler extraction and more reductive

4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot

100% new oak

The palate has a lovely chalky texture on the entry

with clear grip and fierce concentration

I love the fruit forwardness and intention here

in brand new winemaking facilities in Florence

powdery tannins and bright acids

Luca Sanjust winemaker and owner