The 2020 Château Camensac is a classic Haut-Médoc from one of the region’s most improved Fifth Growth estates. Situated on the border of Saint-Julien, Château Camensac benefits from gravelly soils ideally suited to Cabernet Sauvignon, and the outstanding 2020 Bordeaux vintage brought exceptional concentration, structure and freshness. Under the stewardship of the Merlaut family, significant investment in both vineyard and winery has elevated the quality of the estate, making recent mature vintages particularly attractive for Bordeaux enthusiasts.
The nose reveals blackcurrant, blackberry and plum layered with cedar, tobacco leaf, graphite and earthy spice. Medium to full-bodied, the palate combines ripe Cabernet fruit with firm but polished tannins and the freshness that characterises great Left Bank Bordeaux. After more than a decade in bottle, secondary notes of cigar box, leather and forest floor are beginning to emerge, adding complexity without sacrificing vitality. The 2020 vintage is widely regarded as one of Bordeaux’s finest of the modern era, and Camensac delivered a wine with excellent ageing potential and classic Médoc character.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb value mature Bordeaux that offers a genuine taste of the great 2020 vintage without the price tag of its more famous neighbours. Structured, savoury and beautifully evolved, it pairs wonderfully with roast lamb, beef fillet, venison, slow-braised beef and aged hard cheeses. Decant for an hour before serving. Drinking beautifully now, with enough structure and freshness to continue evolving through 2035 and beyond.
