2023 Chateau Carbonnieux BLANC - Pessac (750ml)

One of Pessac-Léognan's most storied estates, classified in 1953 and home to a legendary anecdote: in the 18th century the wine was reportedly introduced to the Sultan of Constantinople's court under the guise of "mineral water from Carbonnieux" to circumvent Islamic law. The 2023 vintage was marked by conditions in line with 30-year normals, with high temperatures arriving at the end of summer allowing optimal maturity. Pale yellow in the glass, with floral aromas of lilac and hawthorn followed by lemon, grapefruit, and passion fruit; fresh on the attack with straightforward acidity, finishing dense and fleshy with lingering lemony notes. Aged 10–12 months in French oak, 25% new. Crackles with tarragon, fleur de sel, and oyster shell. One of the benchmark whites of Bordeaux at a fair price. Drink 2026–2035