These general communes embrace the vineyards of the left bank which do not fall into the major communes. This means that there are properties with these classifications spread over the entire length of the left bank, with vineyards lying on different soil types and in different micro climates. This means that there is a wealth of styles produced, although the majority are Cabernet Sauvignon dominated. There are many very good chateaux producing very good value Claret.
Tasting notes: A dark and deep and slightly glossy wine, with a good concentration of colour right out to the rim. Still with a good, matt, dark oxblood hue, maturing but certainly not advanced. The nose has a very deep and rich character, with a dense macerated-fruit style. There is a high-toned edge to the fruit, but a freshness too, a gentle perfume alongside a more vibrant but plump cherry note. Quite fresh on entry, but broad and dense, full of texture and body and grip. There is good acidity here despite the heat of the vintage, and the tannins although firm sit quite well behind the meat of the wine. A full-on style of wine, with lots of extract and tangible matter. (The Wine Doctor)
Tasting notes: One taste of the wine of Chateau Caronne Ste Gemme provided an early realisation that both good quality and good value can be found outside the long-ordained hierarchy that is the 1855 classification. The fruit has a light, red character, crunchy but with a perfumed edge. (The Wine Doctor)
