BORDEAUX 2012: RESULTS (4)

• Saint-Emilion 2012:136 winesReport 4 (16 April 2013) • Saint-Emilion 2012: uneven vintage ranging from average or good to very good. This vintage pays tribute to what has been accomplished with the Merlot variety, which has been a blessing for all the mid-range right bank wines. Amongst the premium offerings, it has been difficult to do without the contribution of Cabernet Franc. As is often the case, the latter variety has made all the difference. In 2012, it did quite well on impervious, sloping and limestone soils. Corbin does not put it in the blend, while Grand Pontet proudly puts it on display. And it will also be interesting to watch how Petit Cheval goes with its blend of 75% Cabernet Franc. Overall, the Saint-Emilion wines show no harshness and I found less vegetal hints than in Pomerol. As it classically does, the limestone adds a little more structure to this quite youthful vintage. Not so easy in sandy soils though, which tend to thin the wines more. Nevertheless, there is not enough body to move these wines into the class of very good vintages, except for those scored above 92. Wines like this at least have the advantage of instant gratification and are attractive by being naturally less concentrated with no tannic roughness or vegetal hints, slightly higher pHs than in 2011 and comfortable alcohol contents. This is a vintage for drinkers, not speculators, which will delight as soon as it is bottled and could even attract attention if it is not launched on the market at prohibitive prices. In general terms, 15 years ago, Bordeaux could not have displayed this level of quality after undergoing comparable weather conditions. And especially 10 years ago, Bordeaux would not have been able to age a vintage like this and preserve so much vitality in its fruit, such a soft feel or make it so drinkable. And this will be of major importance, given the number of bottles we will actually get. As always in mixed years like this, thorough selection and attention to the specific circumstances of each case are imperative, when deciding what to buy. • Corrections - In the table we have corrected the score for Clos des Lunes, Lune d’argent posted at 89 and not 87. • Table of score s - A new table in Excel making it possible to sort the data has been put on line under Carnet no. 67 bis - We have changed the pdf table by listing the wines in alphabetical order. __________________________________________________________ 3 DE VALANDRAUD Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 ADAUGUSTA Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 ANGÉLUS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 17,25 // 94,5 Gorgeous rich and dark purplish crimson. Clean smokey nose bursting with ripe fruit – perfumed even. Superb, velvety and delicately plump entry leading to a rich and generous middle, full yet melting. Tasty, elegant tactile sensations on the palate from start to finish. Flamboyant finish supported by elegant, sappy and long tannins. Stunning! A blend of 55% merlot and 45 % cabernet franc. ARROSÉE (L') Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,25 - 15,5 // 87 - 88 Dark vibrant red. Ripe fruit and truffle on the nose. Tasty round palate with the cru’s typical rich and mellow character. Moderately powerful. Standard, well-coated length. AUSONE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 17,25 // 94 - 95 Beautiful dark purplish crimson. Elegant and suave nose of ripe fruit. Particularly fragrant entry leading to a layered, stylish and velvety palate crammed with fruit and sap. Remarkably sophisticated finish supported by exquisite tannins. A wine of poise and elegance. BALESTARD LA TONNELLE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Dark vibrant red. Up-front fruit on the nose. Pleasant fragrant mid-weight palate supported by delicious and coated tannins. Standard length. BARDE HAUT Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,25 - 16,5 // 91 - 92 Yet another hit for this outsider that was promoted to grand cru classé in 2012. Dark red; nose of ripe fruit; immediately plush entry leading to a plump, mouth-filling mid-palate supported by substantial and wonderfully coated tannins. Perfumed and tasty finish with delicate liquorice overtones. Good length. Nice work. Alcohol content 13.5, pH :3.6 –a touch more than usual, which gives the wine a lovely round character; IPT:85. This 2012 has a good 25 years ahead of it! BARRAIL SAINT ANDRE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 This is the second vintage to be presented as future by the estate. Vibrant red; lively nose of fruit; appealing, full-flavoured, substantial and coated palate with a vibrant expression of fruit on finish that makes it stand out. Enticing wine, both smooth and perky at the same time. BEAU SÉJOUR BÉCOT Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Dark vibrant crimson. Nose of ripe fruit; soft and fruity mid-weight palate supported by fragrant and integrated tannins on finish. Moderate length. BEAUSÉJOUR DUFFAU LAGARROSSE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 17,25 // 94 - 95 This is obviously a serious contender aspiring to be promoted to premier grand cru classé A in Saint Emilion. 2012 is a definite hit for the cru. The nose is elegant, delicate and fruity; the palate is smooth; the middle complex, the finish bouncy with stylish sophisticated flavours, suave overtones and refined tannins. The wine offers elegant tactile sensations throughout. Superb persistence. Impossible not to swallow. BELAIR MONANGE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,75 // 93 Bright rich crimson. Smooth nose of ripe fruit. Pulpy entry leading to lush mid-palate with delicate flesh and a juicy, wonderfully scented and delicious finish supported by fine-grained tannins. Terrific! BELLEFONT BELCIER Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Dark vibrant red. Clean nose of ripe fruit. Fragrant mid-weight palate bursting with fruit and a touch brisk in the persistence. Reminder: Bellefont-Belcier is the first classed growth in Bordeaux ever to be purchased by a Chinese investor (November 2012). Is this elite terroir poised for greater achievement in the years to come? I truly hope so. BELLEVUE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 Dark vibrant crimson. Attractive nose of ripe fruit and truffle. Smooth velvety entry leading to a juicy, fleshy and coated performance in the middle. Wonderfully hedonistic wine. Sappy finish supported by well-coated tannins. Delicious! BERLIQUET Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 - 16,25 // 90 - 91 Though the year was challenging, Berliquet has managed to produce a plush wine full of ripe fruit and flesh from the start – it is even intense on finish. This 2012 is generous and balanced and offers lovely tactile sensations on the palate and a good length. BIENFAISANCE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 The estate has opted for a second wine this year. Here, the wine is a vibrant red and offers plenty of fruit on the nose. The palate is round, tasty, with richer tannins than before – not to mention the cru’s unmistakable lively finish. Standard length. BOUTISSE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 In this exceedingly challenging year, the 2012 Boutisse is reflecting the cru’s ambitions, its drive for quality and its incredible progress. Dark red; nose of ripe fruit; pleasant mid-weight body - seamless and fragrant. CADET BON Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Vibrant red ; clean nose of fruit; attractive mid-weight palate, with lush fruit and well-coated tannins. Moderate length. Thoroughly pleasant. CANDALE (DE) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 CANON Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,5 // 92 Beautiful dark vibrant crimson. Plush nose of ripe fruit – perfumed even. Juicy on entry, structured and balanced in the middle, with rich flavours. The wine melts on the palate and ends with sap and a dash of positive austerity in the persistence that will be smoothed out at the elevage. High calibre flavours and a good length. A blend of 70% merlot and 30% cabernet franc. Yield: 40 hl/ha for 36 hl/ha selected. Alcohol content: 14, IPT:70, pH: 3.7 CANON LA GAFFELIERE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,5 // 92 Monsieur Niepperg has worked incredibly hard on production to ensure this success. The crop was originally 36 hl/ha, but after stringent sorting, the final yield was reduced to 28 hl/ha. The blend of 50% merlot and 50% cabernet franc makes this 2012 Canon La Gaffeliere a compelling wine right from the nose, which is floral and refined. The palate is full of sap and lush flavours and offers substantial body and lift. Terrific long finish supported by delicious and refined tannins. Nice work. CAP DE MOURLIN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 CAPET GUILLIER Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 CARILLON DE L'ANGELUS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Beautiful dark crimson. Smooth nose crammed with ripe fruit. Deliciously melting and delicately tasty palate revealing layers of lush fruit. Appealing and thoroughly enjoyable. A blend of 50%merlot, 25% cabernet sauvignon and 25% cabernet franc. CARTEAU CÔTES DAUGAY Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 13,75 // 84 CHAPELLE D'AUSONE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,25 // 91 Dark red. Subtle nose of fruit and truffle. Pleasant palate packed with fruit and flavours. Soft and tasty throughout. Moderate yet really enjoyable length. CHATELET (LE) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 CHAUVIN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Deep, bright crimson. Nose of fruit; soft and rather floral mid-weight palate crammed with fruit. Plush, fragrant and enjoyable finish. CHEVAL BLANC Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 17,25 // 94 - 95 Beautiful dark crimson. Refined floral nose of fruit, a touch subdued. Superbly substantial entry leading to sophisticated texture, up-front fruit and absolute charm. Terrific finish supported by compelling softness that melts on the palate with superb elegance. A beauty. A blend of 54% merlot and 46% cabernet franc. Alcohol content: 13°95, pH: 3.78, IPT: 76. Yield: 32hl/ha for the merlot and 30hl/ha for the cabernet franc. 71% selected for the grand vin. CHEVAL NOIR Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 13,75 // 84 CLOS BADON Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Though the year was challenging, the cru has made no compromise on its style: nose bursting with fruit, juicy and fragrant palate backed by elegant tannins and flavours, standard body and moderate length on finish. CLOS DE L'ORATOIRE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,25 - 15,5 // 87 - 88 Dark red. Nose of ripe fruit – a touch subdued; juicy and delicately pulpy mid-weight palate. Lovely. CLOS DE SARPE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Definitely merlot. CLOS DES JACOBINS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 After several years of hard work and unflagging determination, Monsieur and Madame Thibaut Decoster have produced their best ever vintage. Dark vibrant red. Complex nose of ripe fruit. Plush and juicy entry leading to up-front fruit on the lush mid-palate. Fairly powerful finish with a superb persistence of fruit and delicately coated tannins. Fabulous progress has been made in the past 3 years. Hats down! CLOS DES MENUTS Cuvée excellence Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85CLOS DES PRINCES Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 A blend of 90% merlot and 10%% cabernet franc. Bursting with fruit and taste; showing body and a pleasant sappy finish. CLOS DUBREUIL Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Dark purplish crimson. Discreet nose of spice. Plump fruity palate offering body and backed by tannins a touch marked in the persistence. Standard length. CLOS FOURTET Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 17 // 94 Bright crimson. Perfumed and delicate nose. Elegant from entry, full of rich flavours in the middle, confidently revealing a suave and substantial body all the way through to the long sappy finish supported by delicate tannins. Exquisite and wonderfully fragrant. Stunning. Clos La MADELEINE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Intense dark red. Lovely fresh floral nose with ripe fruit. Pulpy entry followed by a slightly firm but tasty mid-palate and finishing long and fruity with a dash of oak in the persistence. CLOS ROMANILE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 The malolactic fermentations are not through yet but the wine is already performing beautifully. It is likely to gain further in fat once they are over. Dense mellow palate offering a mouth-filling, delicately plump middle and generous flavours right through to the excellent and sappy finish. Yield: 25hl/ha. A blend of 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. CLOS SAINT MARTIN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Plump, soft and fragrant mid-weight wine with plenty of fruit but with oak coming to the fore on finish - as it is too often the case for the cru en primeur. CLOTTE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,25 - 16,5 // 91 - 92 Beautiful vibrant crimson. Refined and extremely fragrant nose of ripe fruit. Juicy plump palate offering delicate flesh and a soft body that gathers intensity as it unfurls in the mouth right through to the fat and coated finish. Utterly enticing and substantial presence, with compelling softness and lots of charm on finish. A beauty. COMMANDERIE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,25 - 15,5 // 87 - 88 Gorgeous dark red. Nose of fruit with a dash of citrus. Delicately pulpy and well-built palate offering taste, body, red fruit and citrus flavours. Tannins a touch apparent in the persistence. Standard length. CORBIN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Beautiful dark crimson. Vibrant fruit on the nose. Pretty and soft entry leading to a smooth and fragrant mid-palate bursting with fruit. Fleshy and lush tannins on finish. Standard length. COTE DE BALEAU Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Rich purplish crimson. Nose of fruit. Juicy palate offering body and gorgeous taste in the middle followed by a fruity and scrumptious performance backed by elegant tannins. Utterly hedonistic and enjoyable. COUSPAUDE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 COUVENT DES JACOBINS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Plenty of fruit on the nose, lots of taste on the palate, good structure throughout and well-coated tannins on finish. CROIX CARDINALE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 CROIX DE LABRIE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Dark purplish crimson. Fresh and lively nose of fruit. Lush, tasty and average palate offering velvety sensations and rich scents. Good length on finish backed by refined tannins. DAME DE ONZE HEURES Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 DAME DE TROTTEVIEILLE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Trottervieille’s second wine now includes parts of the plots formerly owned by Château Bergat, no longer appearing in the new classification. Bursting with up-front fruit on the palate; velvety and structured wine, a touch firm but offering a delicious finish. A blend of 50% merlot and 50% cabernet franc. DASSAULT Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,25 - 15,5 // 87 - 88 Deep dark crimson. Perfumed nose; pleasant palate with delicate and generous flesh supported by well-coated tannins. Standard body and length. DAUGAY Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 DESTIEUX Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Bright red; nose of fruit with a dash of citrus; up-front fruit and good structure supported by well-coated tannins. Standard length. The elevage should reveal a more vibrant expression of fruit. DOMINIQUE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Beautiful dark crimson. Nose of fruit and cream. Round mellow palate – rather fat and beautifully fragrant. Standard length. EDMUS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 90 % merlot and 10% cabernet franc. Creamy nose with floral overtones. Deliciously melting and scented palate with well-built frame. Good length. Lovely. EVÉCHÉ (L') Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,25 - 15,5 // 87 - 88 Rich deep crimson. Fragrant and pretty nose of clean fruit; delicately pulpy and balanced palate revealing lush flavours, body and well-coated tannins. Good length; Delicious! FAURIE DE SOUCHARD Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 - 16 // 89 - 90 Yet another beautiful wine for this estate on the rise. Perfumed and delicately pulpy; hedonistic and fleshy; full of ripe fruit. Standard length. FERRAND (DE) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 FERRAND LARTIGUE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 FIGEAC Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 Dark rich crimson. Lively fruit on the nose. Silky entry with up-front fruit. Suave, average body full of flavours and lift. Good length and refined tannins. Things are looking up again for Figeac – and it is a relief. FLEUR (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 FLEUR CARDINALE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 The cru is now one of the last to bring in its crop in Saint Emilion. The 2012 is a beautiful red. The nose is fruity, discreet and not yet settled. The palate is round, dense and juicy with delicate creamy sensations on the palate. It picks up power in the second part of the palate and ends with a good persistence of flavours. FLEUR D'ARTHUS (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Dark vibrant crimson. Nose of fruit, rather clean and perfumed. Delicately plump, suave and moderate palate showing no rough edges. Very pleasant. FLEUR MORANGE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Dark crimson. Fruit and sap on the nose. Fruity and juicy palate- unmistakably merlot. Smooth average body and standard length. A touch oaky in the persistence. FONBEL Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 FONROQUE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Dark crimson. Nose of fruit with sappy overtones. Moderate, soft palate full of fruit and flavours. Standard length. FRANC MAYNE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 - 16 // 89 - 90 Beautiful purplish crimson. Rather fragrant nose of ripe fruit. Attractive, smooth and juicy entry with up-front fruit and a substantial body slowly unfurling through to the melting finish. Refined tannins - more complex than usual. A hit that puts the estate back on track. GAFFELIÈRE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,5 // 92 For the second year running the young cabernet francs have been integrated in the final blend, adding some lift and edge to the wine. Elegant nose with vibrant fruit surging from the glass; particularly aromatic palate offering exquisite tactile sensations and rich flavours. Hedonistic wine boasting delicate sap throughout; substantial body and good length supported by refined tannins on finish. Smashing! GAILLARD Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Dark crimson. Fresh nose of fruit. Deliciously soft and fruity palate with a delicately creamy tactile feel to it. Moderate body. Graceful and vibrant expression of fruit on finish. Delicious! GODEAU Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 GRAND BARAIL LA MARZELLE FIGEAC Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 GRAND CORBIN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 GRAND CORBIN DESPAGNE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Rich dark purplish crimson. Nose of fruit and vanilla. Graceful entry with delicately woven texture. Structured wine supported by rather soft tannins and revealing plenty of flavours . Moderate yet lush finish. GRAND MAYNE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 Gorgeous dark crimson. Fresh and refined nose of ripe fruit. Well-built and caressing palate crammed with vibrant fruit; lifted, suave and seamless body. Utterly enjoyable. GRAND PONTET Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 Dark rich purplish crimson. Refined and fragrant nose of fruit and vanilla. Velvety entry followed by extremely rich and pulpy body laden with flavours. Mighty finish – fragrant and quite scrumptious. Minutely precise extraction. Thoroughly enjoyable. GRANDES MURAILLES (LES) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Gorgeous dark crimson. Nose of fruit with hints of ashes. Soft on entry, round in the middle and a touch oaky on finish. Moderate length. GRANDES VERSANNES (LES) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 GRAVIÈRES (LES) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 GUADET SAINT JULIEN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,25 - 15,5 // 87 - 88 Though the vintage was a challenge, the cru offers more flesh than usual. Moderate yet tasty and pleasant length. HAUT SARPE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Beautiful dark crimson. Nose of fruit and truffle. Palate offering more pulp than usual; smooth throughout; seamless and sappy length. Nice work. HAUT SEGOTTES Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Dark purplish crimson. Nose of fruit, both fresh and creamy. Soft and delicately plump palate offering a lush and well-coated structure and a classic finish that will melt at the elevage. Standard length. Skillfully crafted and thoroughly pleasant. HAUT SIMARD Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 A wine of poise and balance offering fruit on the nose and a plump and substantial body with well-coated tannins. A blend of 70% merlot and 30% cabernet franc. IF (L') Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 87 Jacques Thienpont, who owns Le Pin, has this estate 5 hectares (12 acres) of which are located alongside Troplong Mondot with another 2 hectares (5 acres) by Lassègue. After some fine-tuning, here is the third vintage blended with 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. A very soft approach inspired by Le Pin and its pleasure-seeking focus. Fruity nose, smooth and subtle on the palate with a variety of layers and heartening body. Elegant on the finish. Fine tannins. It’s delicious. JEAN FAURE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Dark attractive colour. Fruity nose. Tender, silky and delicately soft and smooth right through. Very pleasant wine, medium length. J URAT (LE) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 LAMARTRE "Etrange Rumeur" Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Intense dark red. Deep nose of ripe fruit. Fleshy and smooth palate showing poise and balance. With up-front flavours and run through with refined tannins and beautiful tactile sensations. There is a definite “je ne sais quoi” about this new estate that Hannah Fiegenschuh, from the Derenoncourt team, pointed out to me. A blend of 70% merlot and 30% cabernet franc. A very first vintage that bodes well for the future. We’ll see how it performs once bottled. LAMARTRE "Passage Secret" Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 LANIOTE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 LAPLAGNOTTE BELLEVUE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 LARCIS DUCASSE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,75 // 93 Intense dark crimson. Nose of ripe fruit. Broad, generous entry leading to a silky and wonderfully balanced mid-palate supported by refined tannins. Beautifully powerful on finish for the year. Deliciously tasty persistence. A beauty. LARMANDE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 A rather easy, round and appealing wine. Standard length. LAROQUE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 This Laroque reminds me of a mix of Corton and Volnay. The colour is bright and deep; the nose fruity; the palate is crammed with fruit, linear and of average intensity but wonderfully fragrant on finish and perfectly seamless. Good length. LAROZE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 Attractive, lively purple colour. Fresh and fragrant, fruity nose. Very nice delicate texture on the tongue to start, then becoming juicy and flavoursome with a sophisticated feel and good presence in the middle and fine, persistent tannins. Good length: fresh and aromatic. It’s very tasty! Yield: 38 hectolitres per hectare. Massive selection to make the main wine, down to 24 hectolitres per hectare. LASSEGUE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,25 - 16,5 // 91 - 92 Pierre Seillan, who makes the excellent Californian wines, La Muse, La Joie and Le Désir on an estate called Vérité is refining his Bordeaux techniques and offers us a 2012 with a subtle, very fruity nose. It is delicately soft and smooth on the palate, full and juicy in the middle and keeps its elegant feel and sparkling fruit right through to the finish. Nice presence, attractive length. Blended with 68% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon. Alcohol content: 13.5°. p.H: 3.65 LAUDES (DES) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 LOUIS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Fruity wine offering a round, lush and thoroughly pleasant palate ending on a standard length. A wine full of charm. LUCIA Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Intense deep red. Floral nose with ripe fruit. Enticing creamy palate bursting with fruit and supported by rather elegant tannins. Good length. LYNSOLENCE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Unmistakably merlot on the nose. Packed with fruit. Immediately lush on entry then fruity, velvety and even creamy on the palate. Good substantial presence in the middle and tannic long finish. MAGNIEN LA GAFFELIERE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Intense dark red. Subdued nose of fruit; tasty, substantial palate full of flavours. Well-coated tannins supporting the fragrant finish. Very pleasant. MARZELLE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Beautiful dark crimson. Floral nose with fruit and citrus overtones. Plump tasty palate laden with fruit. Good structure. Tannins a touch apparent on finish. Good length. MONDOTTE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,5 // 92 Dark crimson. Solar nose of ripe fruit with hints of truffle. Deliciously melting and suave palate with up-front flavours. Good tasty length. A blend of 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc. MONTLABERT Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 13,75 // 84 MOULIN DU CADET Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 13,5 // 83 MOULIN SAINT GEORGES Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Beautiful bright red. Clean nose of fruit and vanilla, a touch subdued. Smooth and subtle palate offering delicately pulpy and velvety tactile sensations. Good persistence of fruit on finish. A blend of 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. PARC (DU) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 PATRIS QUERRE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 PAVIE MACQUIN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,75 // 93 Rich dark crimson. Deep nose of ripe fruit. Glamorous fat on the delicately creamy palate that melts with grace from start to finish. Ripe and rather elegant tannins. Deep, generous and well-coated finish. Utterly delicious. PETIT CHEVAL Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,5 // 92 Beautiful dark crimson; subtle and fresh nose of fruit. Gorgeous fat from entry with up-front and deep fruit flavours. Powerful from the start and revealing substantial body through to the tannic but elegant and fragrant finish. Utterly delicious. This second wine is a definite hit. A unique blend of 75 % cabernet franc and 25% merlot. PETIT FAURIE DE SOUTARD Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 PINDEFLEURS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Charming and substantial Saint-Emilion laden with fruit and offering a round, juicy and delicious palate. Persistence supported by detailed tannins. Standard length. PRESSAC (DE) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 Dark purplish crimson. Rather refined nose of ripe fruit. The palate is juicy and packed with fruit. Smooth and full-flavoured with moderate length and lovely grained texture; More hedonistic than usual. PRIEURE (LE) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,25 // 91 With Le Prieuré, Aline and Paul Goldschmidt confirm the success of their 2012 production. After a stunning Vray Croix de Gay, here is another high calibre wine of theirs, this time with limestone overtones. Deep red; subtle and elegant nose of ripe fruit; plush juicy palate with vibrant expression of fruit and compelling tactile sensations. Melting and particularly tasty throughout. Plush and wonderfully fragrant finish. A beauty! With such a brilliant performance, the wine definitely punches above its category. QUINAULT L'ENCLOS Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Deep dark crimson. Floral nose of ripe fruit. Smooth wine of balanced structure laden with fruit and deliciously melting on the palate. Well-coated tannins and good length. QUINTUS (ex château TERTRE DAUGAY) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Here is what an experienced team from the left bank (in charge at Haut Brion) can do on the right bank. The focus has been placed on flavours and fragrance rather than on texture at all cost. Beautiful deep red. Fragrant and fresh nose of fruit. Delicately plump and smooth palate with plenty of taste and superb tactile sensations. Perfumed and sappy finish. Difficult not to swallow. A blend of 89% merlot and 11% cabernet franc. Yield: 42.5 hl/ha for a mere 22% selected for the grand vin. ROC DE BOISSEAUX Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 ROCHEBELLE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 ROL VALENTIN Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 The 90% merlot in the blend gives the wine its subtle and ripe nose of fruit. Broad and generous from entry, plush and perfumed in the middle, then melting, juicy and utterly delicious through to the finely grained finish. Good length. So gratifying, it is poised to become a favourite with wine lovers. Standard length. ROYLLAND Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 87 Smooth fruity wine of moderate intensity and length. SAINT GEORGES COTE PAVIE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 SANCTUS du Ch. La Bienfaisance Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 A second wine for the estate that offers more delicate tannins with this latest creation. Here the wine is fruity, plush and suave; the palate is juicy and rich in the middle and melts with grace over refined tannins. Good length. A blend of 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. SAINTEM Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15 // 87 This wine produced by Denis Durantou is 100% Merlot and a sheer delight. Very fruity on the nose, it is juicy and delicately soft and smooth on the tongue, ending up with a great big dose of enjoyment. Hardly €9 a bottle. An achievement. SANSONNET Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Gorgeous bright crimson. Nose of smoke, cream and ripe fruit. Packed with fruit from entry then revealing a plush, rich and full-flavoured texture supported by extremely well-coated tannins. Standard length. Utterly delicious ! SERRE (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 SIMARD Saint-Emilion 14,5 // 86 SOUTARD Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16 // 90 Gorgeous vibrant red. Superb nose of truffle and ripe fruit. Lifted palate full of stylish and compelling flavours. Moderate intensity but exquisite taste. Standard, tasty length. TOUR FIGEAC (LA) Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,75 // 86 TRIANON Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,25 - 15,5 // 87 - 88 Utterly enjoyable wine full of fragrant fruit on the nose and on the palate. Mid-weight yet delicately fleshy. Well-coated tannins and standard length. TRIMOULET Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14,5 // 86 TROPLONG MONDOT Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 17 // 94 Gorgeous dark purplish crimson. The nose is fresh, complex and beautifully fragrant with ripe fruit and cream. The palate is dense and crammed with flavours. Elegant substantial body offering refined tactile sensations on the palate. Fat, fleshy yet elegant tannins. Long and utterly delicious. A blend of 90% merlot and 10% cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon. Yield: 41hl/ha for a selection of 37hl/ha. Alcohol content: 13°2 to 14°9 for the merlot, 13°5 for the cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon. pH between 3.55 and 3.8 depending on the plot. General IPT:90. TROTTEVIEILLE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 16,25 // 91 Gorgeous dark purplish crimson. Nose bursting with lively and fragrant fruit. Crammed with fruit right from entry then mouth-filling, plush and rich in the middle. The positively austere finish will be smoothed out at the elevage. Beautifully sappy and floral expression of fruit in the persistence with hints of liquorice. Good length. A beauty. Yield : 29hl/ha due to poor fruit set on the old merlot vines. VALANDRAUD Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 17 // 94 Attractive lively, dark colour in the shades of purple. Fruity and fragrant nose. Delicately soft and smooth attack, then melts into a very sophisticated feel and becomes powerful and juicy. Lovely long flavoursome finish, quite fragrant for the vintage. A fine accomplishment. VILLEMAURINE Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,5 // 88 Dark red; fragrant nose; the palate is full of delicate pulp and taste with delicious and well-coated tannins. Standard length on finish. VIRGINIE de Valandraud Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 15,75 // 89 Dark red. Subdued nose of fruit; smooth and silky palate with vibrant fruit; long lingering and coated finish; lovely sensation on the palate from start to finish, delicious and fairly long. YON FIGEAC Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 14 // 85 _________________________________________________________________________ © Copyright 2010. This publication is the original work of Jean-Marc Quarin Sarl, 10 allée de Ginouilhac, Le Taillan-Médoc. France. - E-mail : jmquarin@quarin.com The news media and subscribing wine distributors, importers and retailers may use portions of this material (such as tasting notes, ratings or quotes) provided that it is not distorted, the proper wine and vintage are stated, www.quarin.com is given credit for the material utilized, and Jean-Marc Quarin (JMQ) is shown as the Copyright holder.

2012 Futures live

BORDEAUX 2012: RESULTS (4)

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