At a glance

Producer

Château Cantemerle

Region

Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40 - $55 (retail price, average based on Wine-Searcher and reputable Bordeaux merchants in 2023-2024)

Tasting profile

Vibrant blackcurrant, cedar, graphite, and subtle floral notes, with firm tannins and fresh acidity. Hints of earth and mineral emerge on aeration.

Evolution: Fruit will deepen into cassis and plum with tertiary aromas of truffles, tobacco, leather, and forest floor developing gradually after 8-10 years in bottle.

At peak: At peak the wine will display harmonious balance between rich dark fruit, integrated oak, softened tannins, and complex tertiary bouquet with lengthy finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-plus acidity providing freshness and aging backbone.

Tannins

Firm and well-structured, typical of a classified Haut-Médoc with good extraction. Expect tannins to soften gradually over 5-8 years.

Alcohol

Moderate (around 13-13.5% ABV) well integrated, supports balance and aging.

Aging potential

Very good, 15-20+ years from vintage due to classic Bordeaux structure and producer quality.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2046

Optimal window

2025 to 2049

Current status

Needs aging

Current condition

Still youthful, tight tannins and concentrated fruit. Not yet showing evolved tertiary notes.

The peak window between 2028 and 2035 reflects when the youthful tannic backbone softens permitting full expression of complex secondary and tertiary aromas. During this time, fruit and structure achieve balance while fresh acidity preserves vibrancy. After peak, tertiary notes dominate and the wine slowly fades in vibrancy but can still be enjoyed for several years.

Food pairing

Pairs exceptionally well with roasted or grilled lamb, beef filet, duck breast with berry sauces, and aged hard cheeses. As it matures, try with mushroom risotto or truffle dishes to complement earthy notes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow aromatics to open up, bringing forward subtle floral and mineral notes.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Sustainable vineyard management including careful pesticide use reduction, biodiversity protection, and water conservation

Château Cantemerle practices sustainable viticulture to preserve terroir integrity and minimize environmental footprint. They adhere to French High Environmental Value certifications and incorporate modern eco-friendly methods.