Château Carlmagnus 2020

Ripe black fruit and cinnamon touches on the nose – exotic spices and ripe fruits. Juicy and lifted, with a lovely supple texture, bright acidity, a much lighter expression than many. Tannins are super-fine, barely present, and this is much more about the fruit speaking. Hints of salt and herbs, cola, blueberries and raspberries. Joyous, with a light touch. So light yet clean and precise. Layers of slate, acidity and freshness. Accessible and fun.

In this deep-colored wine you find menthol, chocolate mint, licorice, oak, and red pit fruits. Medium-bodied, soft, fresh, and fruity, this is already charming to drink thanks to all its sweet fruit and freshness. 89-91 pts

An enjoyable, well-made Fronsac, the 2020 Château Carlmagnus checks in as 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc brought up in 40% new oak. Offering medium-bodied richness as well as solid aromatics of red and black fruits, leafy herbs, and spring flowers, it has a good sense of elegance and solid length on the finish. Drink bottles over the coming 7-8 year or so.

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Carlmagnus tumbles out with expressive notes of plum preserves and baked black cherries, leading to hints of Chinese five spice and dusty soil. The full-bodied palate is velvety and juicy, with alluring spicy accents and a refreshing finish.

Not content with being a skilled vigneron, Arnaud Roux-Oulié is also a talented painter who designs his own labels. The Merlot shines in this delightful, sapid wine, echoing gentle flavors of perfectly ripe red and black fruits, lifted by a subtle bitterness, noble tannins, and an endlessly mouthwatering finish.