Capbern 2020 (750ML)

94-96 JD / 93 JS / 91 DE / 89-91+ WA / 88-90 VM

Readers looking for an off-the-charts value should snatch up the 2020 Château Capbern, which emerges from the same team as Calon Ségur. Offering a vivid bouquet of cassis, leafy tobacco, violets, damp earth, and chocolate, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, perfectly ripe fruit (not overripe, not underripe), ultra-fine, integrated tannins, and the mix of freshness and richness that’s part of all great wines. It’s a hidden gem in Saint-Estèphe. - Jeb Dunnuck

This is pretty and aromatic with ripe black cherries and blackberries as well as hints of chocolate, sweet spices and nut shell. Full-bodied with a deep character of mellow black fruit. Firm and structured with ripe, fine-grained tannins and a velvety finish. Try after 2025. -JamesSuckling.com

Fragrant with fresh lilac and peonies on the aromatics, fairly high acidities overall with sculpted blackcurrant fruits. A higher level of Cabernet Sauvignon than in recent years after the replanting in the vineyard. 1% Cabernet Franc completes the blend, 3.85pH, 60% new oak. A yield of 33hl/ha. - Jane Anson, Decanter

The 2020 Capbern is composed of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, weighing in with 14.1% alcohol. It is due to be aged for around 18 months in French oak barrels, 60% new. Deep purple-black in color, the 2020 Capbern sings of black cherries, mulberries and redcurrant jelly, with hints of candied violets, wild sage and fertile loam. The medium-bodied palate has impressive verve and freshness, featuring soft, well-managed tannins, red and black berry layers and a mineral-tinged finish. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate

The 2020 Capbern has a delineated, earthy nose with predominantly black fruit and light estuarine scents, although it needs a little more intensity. The palate is medium-bodied with a tannic, slightly austere opening, saline and lightly spiced with a pleasant bitter edge towards the finish. Maybe a little short? It should fill out during its élevage so let’s see if it just gains persistence then.- Neal Martin, Vinous Media