2023 Carbonnieux Blanc

Winery Château Carbonnieux

Château Carbonnieux is one of the historical references of Pessac-Léognan and boasts a viticultural history dating back to the thirteenth century. Since the 1950s, the estate has been managed by the Perrin family, who put the house on the international map with both white and red wines. Carbonnieux is known for its consistent style, in which freshness, balance, and elegance take center stage, with a clear focus on sustainability and meticulous vineyard work.

More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

The vineyards of Château Carbonnieux are located in the southern part of Pessac-Léognan, on gravel and clay soils typical of the Graves. This subsoil ensures good drainage and contributes to tension and minerality in the white wines. The Atlantic climate, with mild temperatures and cooling influences, helps to preserve aromatic freshness and acidity.

Vineyards and grape varieties

Carbonnieux Blanc 2023 is a blend of 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Sémillon. The Sauvignon Blanc provides freshness, aromatic precision, and tension, while Sémillon adds structure, roundness, and length. The plots have been carefully selected to strike a balance between expression and refinement, which is characteristic of the château's style.

Harvest, vinification and aging

The grapes are harvested when aromatic ripeness and acidity are in balance. Vinification focuses on preserving freshness and texture, with controlled fermentation and a precise approach to expressing both fruit and terroir. Aging proceeds in such a way that the wine retains its tension, without the influence of wood dominating its character.

Color, smell and taste

The wine has a clear, light straw-yellow color. On the nose, elegant aromas of pear, white peach, and citrus emerge, complemented by floral notes and subtle spiciness. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a satiny texture and lively acidity. Flavors of lemon, stone fruit, and a distinct mineral impression give the wine freshness and precision. The finish is long, taut, and slightly saline, with an invigorating character typical of white Pessac-Léognan.

Development and drinking window

Several drinking windows are mentioned for this vintage. Yohan Castaing of The Wine Advocate (90–92 points) sees a development period of approximately 2025 to 2035. James Suckling, who rated the wine 94 points, emphasizes the immediate freshness and advises drinking the wine now, although it may also develop further in a few years.

Summary of professional reviews

Yohan Castaing of The Wine Advocate awarded Carbonnieux Blanc 2023 90–92 points and praised its elegant aromatics, satiny texture, and fresh tension. James Suckling awarded 94 points and lauded the combination of citrus, mineral notes, and precise acidity, which make this wine typical of top-level Pessac-Léognan Blanc.

The full review texts can be found in the tab: Professional reviews.

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers.