Back in January 2013, I favorably reviewed the Chateau Carignan 2005 “Prima” Cotes de Bordeaux. At the time, I had also tasted their regular un-Prima 2009 bottling. Like most wines I try, I opted not to review it: it was good but not exceptional.
Because of that, I didn’t expect anything much from this wine, either. Chateau Leon is the second bottling of Chateau Carignan, and as such, should be inferior in quality.
2010 was an excellent vintage in Bordeaux, including the southern districts of Cadillac and Graves. However, the quality of this wine is much higher than I anticipated.
This is Bordeaux of classical dimensions. It offers floral and pencil shavings on the nose. 2010 is medium-bodied with fine structure. The fruit is expressive and ripe, moving to black plums, currants, and red berries. Spice box elements come through on the finish. This will be drinking very well for the next five years.