This estate is regaining its rightful place in the prestigious crus classés. Richly textured, this latest release shows luscious blackberry fruits and layers of firm tannins. The wine will age well, so wait to drink until 2026. - Roger Voss

A fifth-growth that offers some of the best value in the entire red 1855 classification. It has violet edging and clear ripeness to the fruit, with rosemary and dried herbs through the mid-palate. The tannins have grip and are not planning on going anywhere. It's a step up in ageability, and a corresponding step down in ease of tasting right now. Read more at https://www.decanter.com/wine-reviews/france/bordeaux/chateau-camensac-haut-medoc-5eme-cru-classe-2018-29833#iLw3qltKcshl5vyw.99

This is richly textured, velvety with dark black cherry and damson fruit character, reflecting the higher alcohol typical of the vintage. Violet floral notes add balance, and this has lenght and sllky tannins, with attractive mint and bitter fennel on the finish. 60% new oak. Eric Boissenot consultant, Valentin Perrot technical director along with cellar master Christian Alquie (who was in the chateau since 1997, first as an ouvrier), who replaced Clare Thomas-Chenard who left summer of this year. First vintage since 2016, as the 2017 was frost impacted (this is clearly a site that is prone to it, as previous owners had put the Cabernet Sauvignon up on the higher spots, not such good gravel soils, but less frost risk. The current owners did the sensible thing and put the Cabernet back where the gravel is best, but it carries the risk of frost). Harvest September 24 to October 10.

Blueberries and dried currants on the nose with savory oyster shell, tobacco and graphite. Dried violets, too. It’s medium-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins. Layered and flavorful. Balanced. 55% cabernet sauvignon and 45% merlot. Try from 2023.