Château Tour du Haut-Moulin is a well-regarded estate located in Cussac-Fort-Médoc, situated between the famous appellations of Margaux and Saint-Julien in the Médoc region of Bordeaux.
The vineyard benefits from deep gravel soils, which are ideal for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape variety in their blends.
The wines are generally noted for their classic Médoc structure, offering a balance of dark fruit aromatics, firm but refined tannins, and good aging potential.
The estate has a long history in the region, with its roots tracing back to the 19th century. It is known for its traditional approach to viticulture and winemaking, focusing on reflecting the specific characteristics of the Cussac-Fort-Médoc terroir.
As part of the Cru Bourgeois category, it is frequently sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who value high-quality Bordeaux that offers excellent value compared to the classified growths of the 1855 list.
Château Tour du Haut-Moulin is characterized by a traditional, classic Médoc style.
The wines are generally medium-bodied, blending Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and a small percentage of Petit Verdot.
Recent vintages show a consistent profile of dark fruit, earth, and wood-derived spice.
2022: This vintage is widely described as rich and sun-ripened, showing hallmark "Bordeaux charm." The profile features prominent aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and cedar. On the palate, it offers deep dark fruit flavors, layered with hints of liquorice, mineral, and dark chocolate. While approachable now, it possesses a firm structure with polished tannins and is noted for its aging potential of a decade or more.
2021: A more moderate vintage that tends to lean into freshness. It is typically perceived as a medium-bodied red with pleasant currant fruit and medium tannins.
2020: Generally regarded as a successful, high-quality vintage. Tasting notes often highlight "excellent freshness" with a savory profile. Expect aromatics of currants, bramble berries, mint chocolate, and balsamic. The palate is typically medium-bodied with lightly chewy, refined tannins and a juicy fruit core.
2018: This vintage presented a plump and generous profile. It is characterized by dark blue and purplish berry fruit intensity, often accompanied by secondary notes of cedar, leather, and tobacco. While some critics found the oak usage to be quite prominent upon release, the wine is noted for its classic Médoc structure and ability to evolve.
Across these recent years, you can expect a few consistent elements:
Aromatics: A core of black fruit (blackcurrant, plum) frequently accented by cedar, spice, and earth.
Palate: Balanced, medium-bodied, and structured. Tannins are typically well-integrated, especially as the wine spends a little time in the bottle.
Winemaking Style: The estate emphasizes a traditional approach, aging the wines for approximately 12 months in French oak barrels (varying proportions of new oak), which contributes to the characteristic toast and spice notes.
