Chateau Capbern, Saint-Estèphe 2020 750ML

94–96 Point Vintage (vintage consensus: a concentrated, precise, and beautifully balanced Bordeaux vintage marked by ripe tannins, freshness, and strong Left Bank structure).

Château Capbern, long associated with the same ownership as Calon Ségur, continues to rise as one of Saint-Estèphe’s most compelling value-driven estates. In 2020, the château produced a wine that reflects the appellation’s gravel and clay power while embracing the polish and precision that define the vintage. The result is a Saint-Estèphe of both structure and approachability.

Blend: Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and small portions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot (classic Left Bank composition).

Tasting Notes: Aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and blackberry unfold alongside graphite, cedar, and subtle smoked earth. The palate is firm yet refined, revealing cassis, plum, cocoa nib, and savory spice. Saint-Estèphe’s signature mineral backbone is present, lending tension and structure beneath the ripe fruit core, with polished tannins guiding a long, composed finish.

Structure: Structured and precise with firm, fine-grained tannins and excellent balance.

Drink Window: 2026–2045

Decanting: If opened in its youth, decant 2–3 hours to allow the tannins to relax and the aromatics to develop. With age, a shorter decant to remove sediment will suffice.

The 2020 Capbern stands as a confident modern Saint-Estèphe — delivering depth, typicity, and cellaring potential at a level that consistently overdelivers within the appellation. A smart acquisition for collectors seeking Left Bank structure without First Growth pricing, and a compelling bottle for serious Bordeaux tables.