critic reviews
The 2024 Haut-Marbuzet has quite an exuberant bouquet with orange rind-infused red berry fruit, hints of violet and peony that emerge with time. The palate is grippy and medium-bodied with grainy tannins and a fresh, minerally finish. It will need two or three years just to shave its edges, but there is energy here.
An old school estate in an old school year, deep ruby colour, good depth through the palate, and the aromatics are a little leafy but with concentration, tannic structure, and you can imagine that it will soften and elongate over ageing. One to watch. Harvest from September 5, Henri Duboscq is still very much in charge, even though his son Bruno does most of the day to day work.
A blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2024 Haut-Marbuzet shows a more reserved and austere character than in recent vintages. It opens with aromas of dark berries, flowers and subtle spices. Medium-bodied, the wine is juicy and supple, driven by tangy acidity and framed by firm tannins that lead to a compact, somewhat short finish. Hailstorms significantly impacted the Marbuzet plateau, and the damage is evident in the diminished quality and concentration of this years wine.