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More Information >>En Primeur

En Primeur is a French wine trade term for wine which is sold prior to being bottled, for delivery at a future date.

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Burgundy 2009
- Vintage Overview
- How It Works

Wine Shop and Fine Wine Merchant > Fine Wine Shop > En Primeur

The Wines

Overview

Our full vintage report and tasting notes are available here. If you would like to ensure that you receive information about particular châteaux, we recommend that you express interest online, by using the list below or calling our office to talk to one of our fine wine team.

Our reports from the Bordeaux tasting trip can also be read on our blog and we will be using our twitter account @laywheeler to preview the latest Bordeaux releases as and when they happen. So follow us there for all the latest information!

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Filter vintages by: All | 2012 | 1995

Group results by: Commune \| Domaine Tasting notes: Show all \| Hide all		Case size	Price or guide price
Château Amelisse
Red wines	Tasting notes: Show all \| Hide all
2012 Château Amelisse, St.Emilion Grand Cru		6 Bottles	£49.50
Thanks to the moon and the terroir depending on your viewpoint, 2012 is a great vintage for Merlot. Amelisse being pure Merlot, therefore, lends itself to a rich concentration of fruit on the nose. With flavours of blackberries and cassis and possessing silky-fine soft tannins, this has perfect balance. A pretty wine that undoubtedly stands out as one of our favorites of the vintage. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
2012 Château Les Vieux Ormes, Lalande de Pomerol		12 Bottles	£117
A new exclusive for Jean-Pierre Moeuix, we are one of two merchants offering this in the UK. From some of the limestone soils of Lalande-de-Pomerol, it has great depth for a wine at this level and comes from what is surely one of the best value appellations in Bordeaux. Violets and spicy raspberry fruit, with a precise, complex and harmonious structure. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Angélus
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2012 Château Angélus, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£996
"Owned by Hubert de Bouard, the 2012 Angelus was harvested between October 8-18, yields were 34 hectoliters per hectare, and the natural alcohol was over 14%. The final blend was 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the superstars of the vintage, the dense opaque purple/blue-colored 2012 offers up notes of barbecue smoke, graphite, charcoal, blueberries, blackberries, sweet cherries and forest floor. With terrific fruit intensity, a powerful, layered, multidimensional mouthfeel and full body, it should be drinkable at an early age given the sweetness of the tannin. It should easily evolve for 15-20 years." 94-96 points, Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2032
Château Ausone
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Ausone, 1er Grand Cru Classé (A) St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£1,997
A captivating perfume of lilac, heather and dark fruit, with crushed black pepper notes, hints of chocolate and a little menthol right on the end. It is an interesting bouquet that unfurls and changes in the glass, making this a wine that you simply cannot stop inhaling. Cassis, blackberries and plums are beautifully integrated with fine-grained tannins, wonderfully balanced with finesse, minerality and freshness. The average age of the vines at Ausone is 50 years and the blend for 2012 is 55% Cabernet France and 45% Merlot. This was a dream to taste and should not be missed. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2045
ON ALLOCATION 2012 Chapelle d'Ausone, St-Emilion		3 Bottles	POA
Not only having one of the prettiest views in St Emilion once you have climbed up the hill and boasting some of the best terroir in Bordeaux, Château Ausone also has a delicious 2nd wine - La Chapelle de Ausone. For this vintage, the blend is 60% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Inky in colour, with blue fruit liqueur vanilla and ripe black cherries. Rich and concentrated, a truly stunning wine. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Batailley
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2012 Château Batailley, Cru Classé Pauillac		12 Bottles	£249
A staunch favourite at Lay & Wheeler, Chateau Batailley makes traditionally-styled Pauillac and hasn’t failed to please in 2012. Vibrant aromas of black fruit, forest floor and creamy mocha lead into a texturally satisfying palate of concentrated cassis and blueberry. Fine, ripe tannins are cleverly integrated and temper the bursts of fresh acidity. Hints of dark chocolate and cedar are revealed in this finely-balanced wine’s persistent finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2026
2012 Château Batailley, Cru Classé Pauillac		6 Magnums	£258
A staunch favourite at Lay & Wheeler, Chateau Batailley makes traditionally-styled Pauillac and hasn’t failed to please in 2012. Vibrant aromas of black fruit, forest floor and creamy mocha lead into a texturally satisfying palate of concentrated cassis and blueberry. Fine, ripe tannins are cleverly integrated and temper the bursts of fresh acidity. Hints of dark chocolate and cedar are revealed in this finely-balanced wine’s persistent finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2026
Château Beaumont
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2012 Château Beaumont, Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£87
Château Beaumont appears to be a property on the rise, with emphasis placed on both quality and sustainability in their vineyards and winery. The 2012 is a tightly structured wine, with firm tannins providing a framework for the core crunchy, dark cassis fruit. Notes of spice and woodsmoke come through on the finish, which is lingering and impressive. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2024
Château Beauregard
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Beauregard, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£249
2012 is undoubtedly a year in which Pomerol has shone and Beauregard has performed incredibly well. The wine is a little closed on the nose at this early stage, wakening slowly to give subtle notes of spice and plum. The palate is supremely well balanced between rich fruit and racy acidity, with grainy, chalky tannins giving a cool, taut structure. Pure, mineral and very Pomerol. Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
Château Beau-Séjour Bécot
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2012 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		12 Bottles	£339
This St-Emilion has performed very well in this vintage, balancing intensity and concentration with freshness. On the nose, concentrated black fruits give a brooding and powerful sensation, yet the palate is more open and expressive, with a bright freshening acidity that balances the well-integrated tannic structure. Certainly no shrinking violet, but a very well-judged St-Emilion. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
Château Beauséjour-Duffau-Lagarrosse
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2012 Château Beauséjour-Duffau-Lagarrosse, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£270
Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
Château Belair
Red wines	Tasting notes: Show all \| Hide all
2012 Château Belair-Monange, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£375
This wonderful château is located right next to Ausone and still very much a work in progress, although I have no doubt that in time it will be promoted to ‘A’ status. For the time being, half the vines have been replanted and it is much cheaper than its peers. Beautifully aromatic, with spring flowers and crushed stones, the palate has real class, with the texture, length and breeding of first growth terroir. Will age brilliantly well. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2032
Château Belgrave
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2012 Château Belgrave, Cru Classé Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£185
Attractively fragrant on the nose, with notes of red fruits, spice and a gentle touch of creamy oak. The palate has a firm structure, with taut tannins framing a core of lovely vibrant summer fruits and a dark earthy character. Substantial yet finely poised. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Belle-Vue
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2012 Château Belle-Vue, Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£108
This blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Petit Verdot displays the ripeness it was possible to achieve in this vintage as it boasts 13.5% natural alcohol. It is medium-bodied with cedary, herbaceously-tinged red and black currant fruit intermixed with a hint of loamy soil. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. (Robert Parker 86-88 point) Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
Château Beychevelle
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2012 Château Beychevelle, Cru Classé St-Julien		12 Bottles	£465
This impressive Fourth Growth is well known for its iconic label depicting a galley ship, and has earned a loyal following in recent years. Cassis, black cherry, forest floor and a lick of menthol dominate the nose. The palate is full and robust, with concentrated, dark fruits and refined tannins. This wine will require some time for its components to meld, but has the core of quality fruit and acidity to age gracefully and mature into a spectacular wine. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Branaire-Ducru
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2012 Château Branaire-Ducru, Cru Classé St-Julien		12 Bottles	£319
Usually a very stylish wine that uses a high proportion of Cabernet-Sauvignon, Branaire-Ducru is the epitome of St-Julien: a combination of Pauillac fruit and structure and Margaux charm! In this vintage, it is fragrant and appealing on the nose, with notes of ripe cassis and smoke. The palate is pure and layered, with a dart of acidity and something a little herbaceous lifting the ripe fruit and dense tannins and giving a clean, fresh finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Brane-Cantenac
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2012 Château Brane-Cantenac, Cru Classé Margaux		12 Bottles	£324
Always one of the most elegant and sophisticated wines at the Margaux tasting, 2012 is no exception. It displays a gorgeous, floral nose, with notes of raspberry, cassis and violet. The palate is perfectly balanced, with juicy fruit surrounded by ripe, fine-grained tannins. The oak has been well-judged, giving a wine that is all about purity of fruit and expression of terroir. A charming wine that will drink relatively early, but has the stuffing to age well too. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Calon-Ségur
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2012 Château Calon-Ségur, Cru Classé St-Estèphe		6 Bottles	£219
Both Calon-Ségur and Capbern-Gasqueton were sold following the death of the indomitable Madame Gasqueton, but Vincent Millet was retained as technical director by the new owners. Incredibly pretty on the nose, with notes of red berries, white flowers and wet slate. The palate is attractive and well-balanced, with intense fruit expression and a flinty mineral backbone, melding with soft, subtle sweet oak. Elegant rather than austere, Calon is always one of the most refined wines in any vintage and this is no exception. (Rober Parket Score 90-92) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Marquis de Calon, Saint-Estèphe		12 Bottles	£156
69% Merlot and 31% Cabernet Sauvignon. A very feminine nose with gentle aromas of sea heather and violets, which will open up in time. Expressive on the palate - soft and well rounded with a beautiful concentration of fruit, Victoria plum and dark cherries. Layers and textures unfold, offering silky tannins and a pure and fresh finish, the acidity weaving through and integrating perfectly. A beautiful wine. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2024
Château Canon
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2012 Château Canon, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£210
Château Canon is owned by Chanel and managed by John Kolasa, who also manages Rauzan-Ségla. Recent investment has paid dividends and Canon produces very expressive and appealing wines. A little closed on the nose, but opening out to show smoky violet fruit, the palate has a lovely sense of purity, a silky texture and very well-integrated tannins. Lush fruit and a bright acidity combine to give a fragrant character on the finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Canon La Gaffelière
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2012 Château Canon La Gaffelière, Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£213
The medium depth of colour means that the appearance is, for once, a very accurate guide of things to come. On the nose, Stephan Van Neipperg’s blend of 50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Franc fermented in 80% new oak is dominated by a core of rich and sweet black fruit, with more than a hint of violets lifting the aromatics to much more elegant heights. On the palate this is silky-smooth, round and juicy with plenty of flesh and tight yet restrained tannins. Very well balanced and offering a pitch-perfect alliance between richness and elegance, this study in completeness is absolutely delicious. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Cantemerle
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2012 Château Cantemerle, Cru Classé Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£198
Set in acres of beautiful parkland, this is a château on a roll, with its last four vintages among the best in its history. Cantemerle was one of our top picks from the 2011s, and it has certainly impressed us again this year. A clean, fresh inviting nose carries through to a pure, concentrated and feminine palate with a silky mouthfeel. An elegant delight. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
2012 Château Cantemerle, Cru Classé Haut-Médoc		6 Magnums	£207
Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
Château Cantenac Brown
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2012 Château Cantenac Brown, Cru Classé Margaux		12 Bottles	£285
This property has seen a lot of recent investment, first from AXA and after 2006 from millionaire-owner Simon Halabi. This investment is paying dividends, with Cantenac Brown being one of the most consistent Margaux Châteaux over recent vintages. In 2012, it shows a tight framework of fine tannins and blackcurrant freshness and a core of mouthwatering red berry fruit. Elegant and fine, classic, more feminine Margaux. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Carbonnieux
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2012 Château Carbonnieux, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£210
"The Carbonnieux Rouge has a lifted bouquet of blackcurrant, bilberry and dark plum that displays fine minerality. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, astutely judged acidity and palpable weight. Harmonious and pure, there is a pleasant savoury edge on the finish that remains linear and focused." 90-92 points, Neal Martin, The Wine Advocate Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
White wines	Tasting notes: Show all \| Hide all
2012 Château Carbonnieux Blanc, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£219
This is one of the most ancient winegrowing estates in Bordeaux and located on the highest point in the commune of Léognan. The wine has a wonderfully lively nose with fresh grassy and springtime aromas leaping from the glass. Beautifully integrated, with crisp balanced acidity providing great poise and precision. Charming and beautifully structured. Delightful! Dry, White, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
Château Caronne-St-Gemme
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2012 Château Caronne Ste Gemme, Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£84
François Nony of Caronne Ste Gemme has produced an excellent wine over the last few years, proving - amongst others - the quality that can be found amongst the Crus Bourgeois wines; the quality, and the value! The 2012 Caronne is a claret of the classic vein; dark crunchy fruit, herbaceous - almost eucalypt - characters and a firm structure lead the palate, with softer spice and smoky oak notes coming through on the long, rounded finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2020
Château Certan de May
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2012 Château Certan de May, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£570
This feels broader and chewier than some of the other wines in the Jean Pierre Moeuix stable. Some black truffle and spicy, slightly-dried fruit on the nose, it fills the senses. Great balance in the mouth, with layers of kirsch and a smoky richness. Should be great value Pomerol. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Chantalouette, Pomerol
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2012 Château Chantalouette, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£129
The second wine of Château de Sales, Chantalouette is another Moueix star. A bright and inviting claret with a nose of raspberries along with subtle earthy notes. The mouthfeel is fresh and round ,with subtle silky tannins. A typical example from Pomerol, this wine is not one to be overlooked both in terms of style and great value. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
2012 Château Chantalouette, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£64.50
The second wine of Château de Sales, Chantalouette is another Moueix star. A bright and inviting claret with a nose of raspberries along with subtle earthy notes. The mouthfeel is fresh and round ,with subtle silky tannins. A typical example from Pomerol, this wine is not one to be overlooked both in terms of style and great value. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
Château Charmail
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2012 Château Charmail, Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£120
Château Charmail is always a popular wine, due to its appealing style and great value. In 2012, Charmail is glossy and modern in style, with sumptuous layers of rich dark fruit. This is a big wine, with ultra-fine supporting tannins and a touch of sweetly integrated oak on the finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2017 – 2025
Château Chasse-Spleen
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2012 Château Chasse-Spleen, Cru Bourgeois Moulis		12 Bottles	£195
This Château punches well above its weight as a Cru Bourgeois, often matching the classed-growths in terms of structure. Always great value, this wine will appeal to fans of classic, easy-drinking Claret, with its appealing fruit, fine tannin and fresh acidity. Great stuff! Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
Château Cheval-Blanc
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Cheval-Blanc, 1er Grand Cru Classé (A) St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£1,848
The average age of the vines at Cheval-Blanc is 40 years and they produce two grape varieties: Merlot and Cabernet Franc. For the 2012 blend, it is 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc - we were told on our visit that it was the ‘year of Merlot’. This is evident, with a wonderful fruit profile of blackcurrant, blueberry and plum, there are red fruits too of raspberry and cherry. Luxurious on the palate,velvet textures with chocolate flavours entwined with dark forest fruits, vanilla, hints of sweet spice. Extremely well balanced and complex, lingering on into a refined and very fresh finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2045
Château Clerc Milon
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2012 Château Clerc Milon, Cru Classé Pauillac		12 Bottles	£339
Owned and managed by Mouton Rothschild and with vineyards that border those of the great Châteaux of Lafite and Mouton, Clerc Milon boasts an impressive pedigree and has seen a lot of recent investment. In 2012, this is an attractive wine, with a nose of hedgerow fruit and almost black-pepper spice. The palate is defined by firm, but ripe, tannins, which frame the dense black fruits. The finish is long and silken, with the merest hint of florality. Delicious. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Clinet
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2012 Château Clinet, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£246
90% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc. Soft, rounded and endowed with ample volume, this year’s Clinet shows excellent balance. The palate is reminiscent of biting into a fresh and juicy plum, and relies as much on a fresh acidity as it does on well-managed tannins for its structure. Elegant and subtle on the finish, this is an understated but very well made Pomerol. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Cos d'Estournel
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2012 Château Cos d'Estournel, Cru Classé St-Estèphe		6 Bottles	£489
Cos d'Estournel has often divided opinion, but with the departure of general manager Jean-Guillaume Prats, it's possible that it will be somewhat less controversial this year. Certainly, stylistically, this is the most St-Estèphe-like of recent vintages and a far more refined and elegant wine with balanced alcohol. 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, this is dark and pure on the nose. The palate is immediately very fresh, with attractive layers of black and red fruits and a smoky minerality. Tannins are incredibly fine and ripe, giving this wine a great deal of depth and structure, but not masking the fruit and acidity. Well judged and appealing. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2035
2012 Les Pagodes de Cos, St-Estèphe		6 Bottles	£153
The second wine of Cos d'Estournel is far more approachable than its bigger sibling, with greater proportion of Merlot in the blend (40%). Bright and attractive on the nose, with notes of red fruit and a touch of spice. Mouthwateringly fresh on the palate, with ripe hedgerow fruit and an almost-floral sweetness on the finish. Tannins are ripe and well integrated, giving Pagodes a sense of hidden depths, but the overall impression is one of freshness and pure fruit. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2025
Château d'Angludet
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2012 Château d'Angludet, Cru Bourgeois Margaux		12 Bottles	£180
One of the oldest estates in the Médoc, the 2012 d’Angludet offers an enviable purity of fruit on both the nose and palate. Restraint and freshness prevail here. With a quality core of black fruit, lively acidity and plush, ripe tannins, this graceful wine is approachable even now, though will - of course - hold for some time. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château d'Armailhac
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2012 Château d'Armailhac, Cru Classé Pauillac		12 Bottles	£279
Owned and managed by the team at Mouton Rothschild, d'Armailhac has been steadily improving in quality over the past decade. This year it is quite astonishingly good, showing great concentration and depth, subtle use of oak, deliciously ripe fruit, yet held in check by a firm, fine structure. A very classy wine indeed and a unanimous top-tip from the Lay & Wheeler team. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
2012 Château d'Armailhac, Cru Classé Pauillac		6 Magnums	£291
Owned and managed by the team at Mouton Rothschild, d'Armailhac has been steadily improving in quality over the past decade. This year it is quite astonishingly good, showing great concentration and depth, subtle use of oak, deliciously ripe fruit, yet held in check by a firm, fine structure. A very classy wine indeed and a unanimous top-tip from the Lay & Wheeler team. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
Château de Fieuzal
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2012 Château de Fieuzal Blanc, Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£177
Precise, but restrained at the start, with fresh greengage and citrus flavours and a pleasant weight in the mouth. With bright, clean acidity, this has an enjoyable finish with notes of white flowers, wet stone and peach. Dry, White, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
Château de Fonbel
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2012 Château de Fonbel, Grand Cru St-Emilion		12 Bottles	£111
The Vauthier family who own Château Ausone also possess Château Fonbel, with the latter reflecting some of the class, finesse and seductive style of the former, while offering exceptional value for money. The 2012 vintage is blended as 60% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Carmenère. A deeply alluring fragrance of dark cherries, plums and lilac, with soft textures and finely-tuned tannins expressed on the palate. A little Moroccan spice on the softly-lingering finish. A wine not to be missed. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
Château d'Issan
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2012 Château d'Issan, Cru Classé Margaux		12 Bottles	£294
Château d'Issan is owned by the Cruse family, who purchased it in 1945. Today the Château is run by Emmanuel Cruse. The family has put a lot of time and finance into the property and that can be seen in recent vintages, with the quality getting better and better. 2012 is perfumed and pretty with notes of lilac and violet. The body is refined and elegant, showing layers of dark fruits. Silky-soft tannins are beautifully integrated with a wonderful and refreshing finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château du Tertre
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château du Tertre, Cru Classé Margaux		12 Bottles	£222
Another story of the importance of investment in certain properties, du Tertre has been on the rise since 1997, when it was given a financial boost that allowed it to transform itself from a property on the wane to one that performs well in most vintages. The wine this year has structural tannins, hints of oak spice and a ripe core of red fruit; well belanced and with a refreshing acidity, it is light on its feet and appealing. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Ducru-Beaucaillou
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2012 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, Cru Classé St-Julien		6 Bottles	£378
Bruno Borie compared Ducru Beaucaillou in this vintage to Chinese actress Fan Bingbing. This reference was perhaps lost on us a little, but he defined it more closely later on, saying that he felt it was "extremely elegant and stylish, not over muscled... a good classic claret". We would tend to agree. Alluring on the nose, with notes of purple flowers and dark fruit and a touch of nutmeg spice and black pepper. The palate opens out to reveal rich, bitter chocolate, plum and damson characters, layered with soft, fine and structured tannins. A tremendous wine for Ducru this year. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2035
2012 La Croix de Beaucaillou, St-Julien		12 Bottles	£237
Croix de Beaucaillou in this vintage is a serious wine, with plenty of black fruit aromatics on the nose, spice and chocolate. The palate is pure and intense, with dark berry concentration, notes of clove and aniseed held in check by firm tannins. Finishes long and fragrant, with lingering notes of black pepper and spice. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2025
Château Duhart-Milon-Rothschild
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Duhart-Milon-Rothschild, Cru Classé Pauillac		12 Bottles	£576
62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot, a touch closed on the nose, but quite perfumed with some aromatics coming through with time in the glass. The blackcurrant and blueberry flavours are quite gentle too. Fine-grained tannins give satin textures and just at the finish, there is a savoury liquorice element. Very pretty and refined at this moment in time, quite graceful and also a little shy, needs time to evolve and mature. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2026
Château Evangile
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2012 Blason de l'Evangile, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£231
Made in tiny quantities, this, the second wine of Château Evangile, is not generally shown at the Château tastings. However, the Grand Vin in this vintage is undoubtedly one of the wines of the vintage, capitalising in conditions that turned out to be ideal for their terroir and varieties. Blason de l'Evangile is usually excellent value and offers an earlier drinking style of the monumental Château l'Evangile itself. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
2012 Blason de l'Evangile, Pomerol		6 Magnums	£243
Made in tiny quantities, this, the second wine of Château Evangile, is not generally shown at the Château tastings. However, the Grand Vin in this vintage is undoubtedly one of the wines of the vintage, capitalising in conditions that turned out to be ideal for their terroir and varieties. Blason de l'Evangile is usually excellent value and offers an earlier drinking style of the monumental Château l'Evangile itself. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Figeac
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2012 Château Figeac, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£270
40% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc. An enticingly pretty and delicately violet scented nose tinged with savoury notes of pencil shavings and forest floor aromas. The palate is impressively structured and concentrated, with ripe plummy fruit and notes of coffee and cocoa bean. Balancing freshness with power, this is a class act and will appeal to those who admire a more traditionally styled St Emilion. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
Château Fonplégade
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2012 Château Fonplégade, Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		12 Bottles	£249
The 2012 Fonplegade, a major success for the vintage, possesses a dense purple color along with sweet blueberry, black raspberry and crushed chalk-like notes intermixed with a hint of spring flowers. Sweet tannins, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, and excellent fruit, texture, opulence and richness suggest it will drink well for 12-15 years. America’s Adams family (not the one from the haunted hill) owns Fonplegade and they have done a phenomenal job since they took charge. They have also reached across the border into Pomerol to resurrect one of my favorites from 30+ years ago, Chateau L’Enclos. (Robert Parker Score - 91-93 points) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2025
Château Gazin
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2012 Château Gazin, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£219
Beautifully expressive on the nose, with a touch of nutmeg and clove alongside ripe plum and damson characters. The palate shows great drive and energy, fresh and vibrant, with well-proportioned tannins framing ripe, fragrant hedgerow fruits that lead through to a long, savoury finish. A very good Gazin from a year in which Pomerol has shone. (Robert Parker Score: 93-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2032
LOW STOCK 2012 Château Gazin, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£438
Beautifully expressive on the nose, with a touch of nutmeg and clove alongside ripe plum and damson characters. The palate shows great drive and energy, fresh and vibrant, with well-proportioned tannins framing ripe, fragrant hedgerow fruits that lead through to a long, savoury finish. A very good Gazin from a year in which Pomerol has shone. (Robert Parker Score: 93-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2032
Château Giscours
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2012 Château Giscours, Cru Classé Margaux		12 Bottles	£295
The 2012 from this 80 hectare Third Growth estate has a seductive, gently perfumed nose of black and redcurrant fruit. The palate has an effortless quality, with lifted, bright acidity, ample concentration, well-calculated fine, ripe tannins and a long finish. Classic and restrained in style, this is a superb, satisfying wine. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Gloria
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2012 Château Gloria, St-Julien		12 Bottles	£237
Château Gloria is an undoubted rising star of St-Julien, regularly appearing amongst the best wines in the commune in any vintage. The 2012 has a delightfully fresh tea leaf and spearmint nose is followed by a delicious barrage of flavour and brightness on the palate. Soft yet ample tannins provide a fine frame and impeccable structure. Glorious as ever! Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
2012 Château Gloria, St-Julien		6 Magnums	£246
Château Gloria is an undoubted rising star of St-Julien, regularly appearing amongst the best wines in the commune in any vintage. The 2012 has a delightfully fresh tea leaf and spearmint nose is followed by a delicious barrage of flavour and brightness on the palate. Soft yet ample tannins provide a fine frame and impeccable structure. Glorious as ever! Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste
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2012 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Cru Classé Pauillac		12 Bottles	£339
“The Grand-Puy-Lacoste 2012 is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot picked between 3rd and 16th October at 36hl/ha and matured in 75% new oak. The aromatics are reticent at first, demand coaxing from the glass. It reluctantly offers blackberry, small dark cherries and a fragrant seaweed scent. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, grainy tannins that appear fully ripe. There is a very attractive symmetry to this wine, wonderful focus with a fresh, refined finish that is not powerful like the 2009 or 2010, but offers a pleasant salty tang. This is a well crafted wine for the vintage.” 92-94 points, Neal Martin, The Wine Advocate Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Gruaud-Larose
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2012 Château Gruaud-Larose, Cru Classé St-Julien		12 Bottles	£369
A very different blend to the 2011, with the inclusion of 6.5% Petit Verdot, and no Cabernet Franc, this well-regarded Second Growth has produced a charming, classically structured wine. Dark cherries and blackcurrant dominate a nose that has a herbaceous, lifted quality, following through on the palate, which is bound by fine, ripe tannin and the fairly high acidity, balanced by a fresh core of juicy fruit. This will drink relatively early, and should provide a lot of pleasure. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2025
2012 Château Gruaud-Larose, Cru Classé St-Julien		6 Magnums	£378
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2012 Sarget de Gruaud-Larose, St-Julien		12 Bottles	£144
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Château Haut-Bailly
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2012 Château Haut-Bailly, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£237
A property that regularly features amongst the best in Pessac, Haut-Bailly has had an astonishing run of form recently and continues it with this 2012, which looks to be one of the wines of the vintage. Pretty on the nose, bright hedgerow and damson fruits melding with violets and smoke. These carry through onto the palate, framed by super-fine tannins and a mouthwatering acidity that gives lift and drive to this pure and vibrant wine. Long on the finish, with a smoky mineral note that lingers on for minutes. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
Château Haut-Batailley
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2012 Château Haut-Batailley, Cru Classé Pauillac		12 Bottles	£243
Made by the team at Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Haut-Batailley is a charming and elegant wine, made with a lovely lightness of touch. Brightly fragrant on the nose, with subtle raspberry characters alongside the more classic cassis and tobacco notes. The palate it is silky-fine in texture, with a crushed slate minerality and bright red currant acidity running alongside very ripe structural tannins. A Pauillac in a more feminine style and utterly beguiling. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2028
Château Haut-Brion
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2012 Château Haut-Brion, 1er Cru Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£1,398
65.5% Merlot, 32.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc. The beautifully lifted, fragrant, herb-scented nose is followed on the palate by an almost surprising level of concentration. The powerful and pure core of almost sweet blackcurrant fruit is garnished with more aromatic herbs, freshly roasted coffee beans and a hint of peppery spiciness. The tannic structure is very impressive for its seamless integration and fine-grained quality. Expressive with huge length and understated power to round off the package, this surely is a candidate for wine of the Vintage this year. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2040
2012 Le Clarence de Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan.		6 Bottles	£339
41% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. Named in honour of Clarence Dillon, who bought the estate in the 1930s. His great grandson, Prince Robert of Luxembourg, is the current owner of this, the oldest, smallest and arguably greatest of the Bordeaux First Growths. The same meticulous care and attention lavished on the Grand Vin is in evidence here. Dark berried fruit with a savoury hint of baked earth, black olives, and sweet spice lead onto a velvet textured palate where the fruit, tannin and acidity are all perfectly pitched with great persistence of flavour on a long, flowing finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Haut-Brion Blanc, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£3,450
45% Sémillon, 55% Sauvignon Blanc. The delicate, fresh nose with its dominant notes of freshly cut grass and just a soupcon of hazelnuts in the background is once again almost misleading, such is the power of this wine on the palate. Absolutely divine, this wine boasts perfect balance with plenty of volume on the palate. It is tightly structured yet mellow and juicy, with aromas of lime, lemongrass and a hint of gooseberry cutting through the rich, beeswax-like texture. Very long and quite simply sublime! Dry, White, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
2012 La Clarté de Haut-Brion Blanc, Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£339
Péssac’s whites are amongst the highlights of 2012, and this is effectively the second wine of La Mission and Haut-Brion – formerly known as Les Plantiers. 58% Semillon and 42% Sauvignon Blanc, the nose displays intense aromas of lemon meringue with a hint of cut grass. On the palate it is delicately textured with real zip and drive - and subtle oak accents are revealed on a savoury, toasty finish. Dry, White, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
Château Hosanna
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2012 Château Hosanna, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£450
Right in the heart of the plateau of Pomerol, with only 1,500 cases produced, this is now a perfect example of the JP Moeuix style. Freshness and complexity with refined power, it seems darker and spicier than its neighbour La Fleur Pétrus. Intensely mineral, with liquorice on the nose, it unfurls in the mouth with creamy red cherry fruit and super-fine tannic structure. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2035
Château La Conseillante
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2012 Château La Conseillante, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£330
Enjoying a central location on the famous plateau, with superb terroir, the property has been in the hands of the Nicolas family since 1871. An undoubted star of our tastings, La Conseillante is sure to be one of the sought-after wines of the vintage. A sensual nose of mocha, chocolate and ripe damsons lead onto a kirsch and sweet spice laden palate encased by well-proportioned, fine grained tannins and vibrant acidity. The finish is gloriously expansive and harmonious Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château La Dominique
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ON ALLOCATION 2012 Château La Dominique, Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		12 Bottles	POA
No shrinking violet, the 2012 La Dominique appears very deep and dark in the glass, and the nose confirms this intensity with loads of plum and even a little prune on the nose. All cream and velvet, the texture on the palate is very seductive, and the dark fruit is lifted by a peppery edge. Dense with a very long and powerful finish, this wine punches above its weight, as it has done for the past few vintages. Its grippy yet very ripe and well-managed tannins should see this modern St Emilion age very well for 15 years and more. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
Château La Fleur-Pétrus
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2012 Château La Fleur-Pétrus, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£498
A wine that seems to get better and better every year. Edouard Moueix and his father have left no stone unturned in making this one of the great wines of Pomerol. Violets, lavender and spice on the nose, with crushed raspberry and no sign of oak. This is precise and fresh, with fine bones and should mature along the lines of the 2001 - a delicious wine that is sublime now. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2035
Château La Lagune
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2012 Château La Lagune, Cru Classé Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£393
This solid performer, based in the commune of Ludon-Medoc, has pulled out all the stops in 2012. Fresh, ripe Cabernet fruit dominates the pure nose, whilst the palate is well-balanced, with sweet black fruit and fine, elegant tannins, and just a hint of menthol on the finish. Approachable early, it will drink splendidly in the medium-term. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château La Mission Haut-Brion
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2012 Château La Mission Haut-Brion, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£838.50
An enticingly aromatic nose of ripe red berried fruit, baked earth with subtle menthol and cedar notes. Comprising 62% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon there is a sweetness of red berries and blackcurrants on the entry before the finely tuned tannins envelope the palate with waves of textural richness building towards a fan tail finish with notes of leather and sweet spice. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2040
2012 La Chapelle de la Mission, Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£408
Striking a balance between opulence and freshness, the fine but firm tannins in this wine provide a good structure, encircling a bright acidity and blueberry and classic cassis flavours. A lovely, well-balanced wine. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2024
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc, Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£2,700
84 Semillon, 16% Sauvignon Blanc. A medley of crushed rocks, lemon curd, cut grass and fennel. The exceptionally low yields of 2012 are revealed in the perfectly weighted textural richness, intensity and extraordinary length. Easily a candidate for wine of the vintage. Dry, White, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
Château La Pointe
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2012 Château La Pointe, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£219
A property that has seen a lot of recent investment in both the vineyard and the cellar, La Pointe is going from strength to strength. In a year where Pomerol has performed well, La Pointe has capitalised and produced a very good wine indeed. Elegantly structural, this is a refined and delicate style, with damson fruit enswathed in fine tannins. A vein of acidity runs throughout, ably lifting the finish. Elegant and feminine. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château La Serre
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2012 Château La Serre, Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		12 Bottles	£275
Pretty and feminine with floral notes of lilac and violet carrying on through to a fragrance of bramble fruit. The palate is an enticing mix of cassis and vanilla, chocolate notes and crushed black pepper. The tannins are soft and silky, offering complexity and harmony. Another very appealing example from Château La Serre. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2024
Château La Tour de By
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2012 Château La Tour de By, Cru Bourgeois Médoc		12 Bottles	£108
One of last year's stars in terms of value, this looks set for another great year. Attractive on the nose, with sweet-ripe fruit and a touch of spice and smoke. More serious on the palate, quite tautly reined in by fine-grained tannins and mineral acidity. The fruit is ripe and rounded, carrying through to a crisp and fresh finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2028
Château Lafite
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2012 Carruades de Château Lafite, Pauillac		6 Bottles	£540
The second wine of Lafite, with a third of fruit from the Lafite vineyards in its make-up. The 2012 assemblage is 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Aromatic aromas, delicately infused with blackberry, crushed black pepper and a hint of dried chilli. Concentrated, rich dark and lush, enticing and warm. Morello cherry and blackberries are wrapped up in chocolate and nutmeg spice. Perfect balance and complexity, silky-soft tannins with layers of velvet. A truly remarkable wine. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Lafite-Rothschild
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2012 Château Lafite-Rothschild, 1er Cru Pauillac		6 Bottles	£2,148
A wine that needs no introduction and that has excelled this vintage. Delicate and feminine, but with an underlying power. Blended with 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.5% Merlot and 0.5% Petit Verdot. A sweet captivating fragrance of violets, sweet ripe dark fruits, cedar wood and a little pine. Initial first taste is silk and satin layers, pure and precise, interwoven round the concentrated complex core. Tannins are so fine grained, they appear as velvet. A little minerality on the finish, gliding through to a refreshing, lingering long finish. Perfection and harmony. (Robert Parker score: 92-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2040
2012 Château Lafite-Rothschild, 1er Cru Pauillac		3 Bottles	£999
A wine that needs no introduction and that has excelled this vintage. Delicate and feminine, but with an underlying power. Blended with 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.5% Merlot and 0.5% Petit Verdot. A sweet captivating fragrance of violets, sweet ripe dark fruits, cedar wood and a little pine. Initial first taste is silk and satin layers, pure and precise, interwoven round the concentrated complex core. Tannins are so fine grained, they appear as velvet. A little minerality on the finish, gliding through to a refreshing, lingering long finish. Perfection and harmony. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2040
Château Lafon-Rochet
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2012 Château Lafon-Rochet, Cru Classé St-Estèphe		12 Bottles	£246
Painted a vibrant golden colour, mirrored on its label, Lafon-Rochet is one of the most unmistakable properties in the Médoc. The 2012 has plentiful mouthwatering, juicy fruit on the palate, which follows through from a surprisingly subtle nose. This year’s Lafon Rochet is vibrant and fresh with a silky smooth texture and a satisfying long finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Lagrange
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LOW STOCK 2012 Les Fiefs de Lagrange, St-Julien		12 Bottles	£159
Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
Château Langoa-Barton
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2012 Château Langoa-Barton, Cru Classé St-Julien		12 Bottles	£333
The 2012 blend contains 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. The nose is vibrant and ripe and the palate fresh and concentrated, with well-judged acidity. This will mature into a classically-styled Claret once the tannins have resolved and will be very interesting to taste alongside the Léoville as they both mature. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Château Langoa-Barton, Cru Classé St-Julien		24 Halves	£347
The 2012 blend contains 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. The nose is vibrant and ripe and the palate fresh and concentrated, with well-judged acidity. This will mature into a classically-styled Claret once the tannins have resolved and will be very interesting to taste alongside the Léoville as they both mature. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
Château Larcis-Ducasse
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2012 Château Larcis-Ducasse, Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£195
Promoted to 1er Grand Cru Classé last year, this Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend is full of plums, rose petals, blueberries and even violets. The fresh acidity leads to very fine mineral-tinged tannins, with a touch of herbaceousness on the finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Latour
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1995 Château Latour, 1er Cru Pauillac		6 Bottles	£2,460
“A beauty, the opaque dense purple-colored 1995 exhibits jammy cassis, vanillin, and minerals in its fragrant but still youthful aromatics. Medium to full-bodied, with exceptional purity, superb concentration, and a long, intense, ripe, 40-second finish, this is a magnificent example of Latour. As the wine sat in the glass, scents of roasted espresso and toasty new oak emerged. This classic will require considerable cellaring.” 96 points, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate Merlot / Cabernet Sauvignon Dry, Red, Still France Improving/Ready 2005 – 2030
Château Le Crock
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2012 Château Le Crock, Cru Bourgeois St-Estèphe (UK Customers Only)		12 Bottles	£141
A wine that brought a smile to our faces at the tasting, Le Crock showed exceptionally well. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc, it is a fragrant and charming wine on the nose. The palate is somewhat more reserved, with a lovely freshness to the ripe hedgerow fruit and a subtle but firm structure. Finishes long and clean, with hints of woodsmoke and spice. Utterly delicious. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Le Pin
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ON ALLOCATION 2012 Château Le Pin, Pomerol		3 Bottles	POA
One of the smallest estates of the Right Bank, producing some of the most exclusive wines in the world. The blend is always 100% Merlot. The 2012 vintage was picked from five contiguous plots and harvested between the 1st and 3rd October. Le Pin is simply stunning with a perfume of violets, sea heather and a little pencil lead. On the palate fine grained tannins wrap around layers of black cherries, chocolate and nutmeg spice, all beautifully integrated with a finish that lasts forever! Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
Château Le Tertre Rôteboeuf
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2012 Château Le Tertre Roteboeuf, Grand Cru St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£627
Picked on 9th October and a blend of 20% Cabernet Franc and 80% Merlot, Francois Mitjavile’s 2012 has a wonderfully pixelated bouquet with pellucid dark cherries, fresh raspberry and minerals. It is not as intense as either the 2009 or 2010, but then again, why should it be. It has the kind of bouquet that creeps up on you. The texture of the tannins scream “Burgundy!” on the entry, but there is a seam of graphite threaded through the dark berry fruit that brings you back to Bordeaux. It is not a powerful, extravagant or even a “gourmand” Tertre-Rôteboeuf, but it exudes poise, harmony and that oft-forgotten word...drinkability – Neal Martin. (Neal Martin score 92 – 94) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
Château L'Eglise-Clinet
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ON ALLOCATION 2012 Château L'Eglise-Clinet, Pomerol		6 Bottles	POA
Pomerol has produced some real stars of the 2012 vintage, owing to the huge success of Merlot. The blend for L'Eglise-Clinet is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Denis Durantou told us that 3% press wine was used for the blend, but rather than pressed the grapes were ‘very gently pushed together’ in order to avoid overextraction. Cassis, cigar box and a subtle menthol note can be found, together with pure fruit expression, soft round tannins and a lingering and elegant finish. Tremendous stuff. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Léoville-Barton
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2012 Château Léoville-Barton, Cru Classé St-Julien		12 Bottles	£489
Léoville-Barton is a truly classic claret and a favourite of ours in most vintages. In this vintage, it has excelled, relishing conditions that have allowed crunchy, dark berry fruit expression to sing. This is quite a serious and masculine Léoville, showing very dense concentrated dark cassis fruit and structural tannins, yet with a delicious freshness that gives this wine a sense of not having been overworked. Pure, expressive, powerful and mineral, this is a vintage success-story as far as we're concerned. (Robert Parker Score 90-92) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
Château Léoville-Las-Cases
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2012 Château Léoville-Las-Cases, Cru Classé St-Julien		6 Bottles	£477
The largest plot of Léoville-Las-Cases vineyards is known as the Grand Clos and is situated right next to the vineyards of Château Latour. The assemblage for 2012 is Cabernet Sauvignon 74%, Merlot 15% and Cabernet Franc 11% . Powerful, pungent, intense and alluring, with a wonderful, beautiful and expressive bouquet on the nose. The palate also great expression and intense power. Ripe dark fruits, liquorice and red bell pepper with a shot of black pepper on the end. The power is immense, concentration deep and dark, this is a serious wine that needs time. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Clos du Marquis, St-Julien		12 Bottles	£324
The second wine of Château Léoville-Las-Cases (although they always described it as a different expression rather than a second wine), this has been in production since 1902. Aromatic notes of blackberry, crushed black pepper and hints of cedar. There is an appealing savoury leather character to the nose. A lovely mouthfeel, plush textures of velvet and layers of satin. Some spice coming through with red bell pepper and dark forest fruits, all dense and concentrated with rounded tannins. A complex wine with great potential. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Léoville-Poyferré
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2012 Château Léoville-Poyferré, Cru Classé St-Julien		6 Bottles	£234
A property in the ascendant, once more Léoville Poyferré has demonstrated its class in this vintage, producing a wine of immense concentration and depth. A blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot, this is a powerful wine, with delicious velvet-like texture, but balanced by a lovely acidity that carries through to the finish, allowing this wine to leave an impression of elegance and lightness of touch. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Château Moulin-Riche, St-Julien (UK Customers Only)		12 Bottles	£156
Owned and managed by the team at Léoville Poyferré, Moulin Riche always offers excellent value for money and seems likely to do so again in this vintage. Immediately fresh and vibrant, this is a very pure style. With dark berry fruit, some smoky character and crushed stone structure to the tannins and a vein of acidity that gives this an almost-linear tautness, this is quite a grown-up wine in this vintage. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Les Ormes de Pez
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2012 Château Ormes de Pez, Cru Bourgeois St-Estèphe		12 Bottles	£189
Named, rather charmingly, after the old elm trees that stood in the village near the property back in the 18th century. This property, owned and managed by the team at Lynch Bages, has a pure nose with subtle oak spice, bramble and mouth watering cassis notes. A well-structured, well balanced and brooding wine, with velvety smooth fine tannins and a delightful freshness on the finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château L'Evangile
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2012 Château l'Evangile, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£573
Part of the Rothschild portfolio. 2012, they note, was a difficult vintage to work with, although l’Evangile was a little easier, due to its high proportion of Merlot: 93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc. Aged in 100% new oak. A delicate floral and slightly exotic nose of purple flowers, with a little mint just teasing its way through. Velvet textures of plums and damsons, all the fruit ripe and fresh. Tannins soft, ripe and gentle. A wine with lovely structure and balance. Perfect. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2035
Château Lynch-Bages
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2012 Château Lynch-Bages, Cru Classé Pauillac		6 Bottles	£334.50
One of the so-called "flying fifths", Lynch Bages is always one of the top wines in any vintage. Run by Jean-Michel Cazes, with the philosophy of "great wines in quest of the absolute", this is a property where quality is utterly paramount. The 2012 is bold and ripe, rich and concentrated , with a lovely expressive, layered texture that shows a lot of depth, yet with finely-handled tannins and impeccable balance. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2032
2012 Château Lynch-Bages, Cru Classé Pauillac		12 Bottles	£669
One of the so-called "flying fifths", Lynch Bages is always one of the top wines in any vintage. Run by Jean-Michel Cazes, with the philosophy of "great wines in quest of the absolute", this is a property where quality is utterly paramount. The 2012 is bold and ripe, rich and concentrated , with a lovely expressive, layered texture that shows a lot of depth, yet with finely-handled tannins and impeccable balance. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2032
Château Malescot St-Exupéry
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2012 Château Malescot St-Exupéry, Cru Classé Margaux		12 Bottles	£327
"Semper ad altum", or "ever higher" is the motto at Malescot St-Exupéry and appropriately so, as this most certainly a property on the rise, producing long-lived and concentrated wines. The 2012 is dark and brooding on the nose, a little closed. The palate however opens up to give a very masculine expression of the appelation, crunchy black hedgerow berry fruits and fine-honed but firm tannins. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2026
Château Margaux
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Margaux, 1er Cru Margaux		6 Bottles	£1,398
Of this vintage, Aurélien Valance, the commercial director, said "it is obviously not 2009 or 2010, but it's not far from that and is stylistically closer to 2010". Made under "almost 100% organic" conditions, the grand vin is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Restrained and pure on the nose, giving little away except for hints of dark berries and a touch of woodsmoke. The palate is concentrated and powerful, with a dense tannic structure that underpins layers of ripe dark berry fruit, smoky mineral notes, sweet oak and - above all - a lovely freshness. Despite the evident depth and power here, this shows surprising charm and finesse. Effortless, long, pure and appealing, this is a very good wine in this vintage. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2040
2012 Pavillon Rouge du Château Margaux, Margaux		6 Bottles	£425.50
Château Margaux has raised their game considerably regarding Pavillon Rouge, being much more selective with the fruit and making only a third as much as they did in 2004. This has paid dividends and Pavillon is a very classy wine in this vintage. Ripe and rounded on the nose, with damson and cassis characters. The palate has a deliciously-velvety mouthfeel, with finely-expressed tannins and sweet, ripe berry fruit at the core. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
White wines	Tasting notes: Show all \| Hide all
2012 Pavillon Blanc du Château Margaux, Margaux		6 Bottles	£549
Another wine for which Château Margaux operates a very strict selection policy - they sold-off 70% of their white crop in bulk, retaining only the best 30% to make this sought-after 100% Sauvignon Blanc wine. Bright and appealing on the nose, with hints of citrus, white peach and wet stones. The palate is very pure, with mouthwatering citrus notes, white flowers and softer white stone fruit at the core. A creamy weight at the centre, yet finishing very crisp, with an almost-saline note. Delicious. Dry, White, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
2012 Pavillon Blanc du Château Margaux, Margaux		3 Bottles	£274.50
Another wine for which Château Margaux operates a very strict selection policy - they sold-off 70% of their white crop in bulk, retaining only the best 30% to make this sought-after 100% Sauvignon Blanc wine. Bright and appealing on the nose, with hints of citrus, white peach and wet stones. The palate is very pure, with mouthwatering citrus notes, white flowers and softer white stone fruit at the core. A creamy weight at the centre, yet finishing very crisp, with an almost-saline note. Delicious. Dry, White, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Montaiguillon
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2012 Château Montaiguillon, Montagne-St-Emilion		12 Bottles	£81
78% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. Always a good value, the 2012 Montaiguillon opens up in the glass to reveal enticing red fruits and a touch of spice. On the palate, the tannins have a little bit of grip, framing crunchy red berry notes. A vibrant and lively wine, with a lovely freshness that carries through to the finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2020
Château Montrose
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2012 Château Montrose, Cru Classé St-Estèphe		6 Bottles	£319.50
While, like many others, Château Montrose define this vintage as being "challenging", they are also confident that it ranks among the best in recent years. It is a monumental wine and one of the most youthful wines that we tasted during our visit. Darkly brooding on the nose, but opening out a little on the palate, with an immediate burst of freshness. This is all about structure however at this early stage, with ripe-but-bold tannins and stony mineral notes framing a core of intense dark berry fruit. The epitome of St-Estèphe austerity. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2040
2012 La Dame de Montrose, St-Estèphe		12 Bottles	£228
The second wine of Château Montrose is usually made in a more approachable style and uses a high proportion of Merlot in the blend to achieve this. In 2012, this is 76% Merlot, with the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, and - while still quite closed on the nose - is relatively open and expressive on the palate, with notes of wild hedgerow fruits and a hint of spice and woodsmoke, almost perfumed on the finish. Very appealing, with a layered texture, this is a delicious St-Estèphe. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
Château Moulinet-Laserre
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2012 Château Moulinet-Laserre, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£210
This is the sister property of Clos René and represents remarkable value in what was an excellent vintage for Pomerol. Violets, graphite and mulberry on the nose with a rich mouth coating texture and spicy, raspberry fruit, the finish is long, detailed and refreshing. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Moulin-St-Georges
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2012 Château Moulin-St-Georges, Grand Cru St-Emilion		12 Bottles	£213
The proprietors of Moulin-St-Georges are the Vauthier family, who also own the famous Château Ausone. The quality of the winemaking is clearly evident in the Moulin-St-Georges and the blend for the 2012 is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. A powerful bouquet on the nose, cassis and bramble fruits in abundance, hints of woodsmoke and savoury note creeping through too. Morello cherry and cassis woven round fresh, plush tannins of velvet and a beautiful refreshing finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Mouton-Rothschild
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2012 Château Mouton-Rothschild, 1er Cru Pauillac		6 Bottles	£1,398
With a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend (90%), Mouton this year is a darkly attractive wine. Almost delicate on the nose, with perfumed notes of dark fruit, woodsmoke, cedar and violets. The palate is incredibly fresh and lively, bright acidity balancing silky-fine tannins. This framework of acidity and tannin encases the pretty dark berry fruit core, melding with more complex and fragrant notes of star anise, bitter chocolate and tobacco. Long on the finish, this is both elegant and serious. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2019 – 2030
2012 Le Petit Mouton, Pauillac		6 Bottles	£378
Savoury on the nose, with notes of gunsmoke and spice running alongside hedgerow fruit. The palate is of crunchy blackberries and damson fruit, reined in by taut tannins and a freshening blackcurrant acidity. Velvet-textured and seamlessly long, this is quite a feminine-styled Petit Mouton this year, a more delicate expression than we have seen for the past few vintages. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2024
2012 Le Petit Mouton, Pauillac		12 Bottles	£759
Savoury on the nose, with notes of gunsmoke and spice running alongside hedgerow fruit. The palate is of crunchy blackberries and damson fruit, reined in by taut tannins and a freshening blackcurrant acidity. Velvet-textured and seamlessly long, this is quite a feminine-styled Petit Mouton this year, a more delicate expression than we have seen for the past few vintages. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2024
Château Palmer
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2012 Château Palmer, Cru Classé Margaux		6 Bottles	£855
The ripeness of the Merlot and the precision of the Cabernet were key for the 2012 vintage. The two varieties were very different in style and a big concern for the Château was the blend, however we were told ‘the blend came easily in 4-5 tastings’ - settling on 48% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot. Cassis, blackcurrant leaf, hints of pine and cedar wood. Wonderful integration of dark fruits, silky tannins and refreshing acidity lead to a huge grand finale of a finish. A completely stunning wine. (Robert Parker score - 92-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2038
2012 Alter Ego de Château Palmer, Margaux		12 Bottles	£429
51% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Alluring aromas of morello cherry, chocolate and a hint of pencil lead draw you into the glass. These characters are reflected too on the palate, with layers of silk, satin and velvet. Finishing with a shot of vanilla and nutmeg and drawing out into a huge long lingering finish. A stylish wine with finesse and class. Merlot 51% / Cabernet Sauvignon 40% / Petit Verdot 9% Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
2012 Alter Ego de Château Palmer, Margaux		6 Bottles	£214.50
51% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Alluring aromas of morello cherry, chocolate and a hint of pencil lead draw you into the glass. These characters are reflected too on the palate, with layers of silk, satin and velvet. Finishing with a shot of vanilla and nutmeg and drawing out into a huge long lingering finish. A stylish wine with finesse and class. Merlot 51% / Cabernet Sauvignon 40% / Petit Verdot 9% Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
2012 Alter Ego de Château Palmer, Margaux		3 Magnums	£225
51% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Alluring aromas of morello cherry, chocolate and a hint of pencil lead draw you into the glass. These characters are reflected too on the palate, with layers of silk, satin and velvet. Finishing with a shot of vanilla and nutmeg and drawing out into a huge long lingering finish. A stylish wine with finesse and class. Merlot 51% / Cabernet Sauvignon 40% / Petit Verdot 9% Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Pape Clément
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2012 Château Pape Clément, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£549
65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the most admired properties in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, the 2012 Pape-Clément is a Merlot-dominated, gorgeous blend of pure, dark fruit core with lovely and fresh herbaceous notes. The palate is very seductive – soft, ripe and silky with über-classy, fine-grained tannins and a long and persistent finish that imposes itself without a hint of brute force, it is excellent and a great success of the appellation. (Robert Parker score - 92-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Château Pape Clément, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£276
65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the most admired properties in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, the 2012 Pape-Clément is a Merlot-dominated, gorgeous blend of pure, dark fruit core with lovely and fresh herbaceous notes. The palate is very seductive – soft, ripe and silky with über-classy, fine-grained tannins and a long and persistent finish that imposes itself without a hint of brute force, it is excellent and a great success of the appellation. (Robert Parker score - 92-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Pape Clément Blanc, Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£510
The 2012 Pape Clement, a profound blend of 45% Sauvignon Blanc, 44% Semillon, 5% Sauvignon Gris and the rest Muscadelle, is once again a fabulous effort. Gorgeous notes of honeysuckle, pineapple, orange blossoms and mangoes soar from the glass of this full-bodied, unctuously textured, zesty, well-delineated white Pessac-Leognan from a suburb of Bordeaux. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. (Robert Parker score - 95-98) Sauvignon Blanc 45% / Semillon 44% / Muscadelle 6% / Sauvignon Gris 5% Dry, White, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
Château Pavie
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Pavie, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£996
"The full-bodied, opaque purple-hued 2012 exhibits a beautiful nose of mulberries, black cherries, cedar wood, high quality toasty oak, lead pencil shavings, crushed chalk and floral notes. This complex, authoritative, full-throttle Pavie possesses much more accessibility and precociousness than most vintages. It is another brilliant effort from proprietors Chantal and Gerard Perse. It should be drinkable in 8-10 years and last for three decades." 94-96+ Points, Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2032
Château Pavie-Macquin
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Pavie-Macquin, Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£195
85% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 1 % Cabernet Sauvignon. Once again the winemaker at Pavie-macquin managed to produce a wine that is very aromatic, with great purity of fruit and an almost minty freshness. The structure is quite muscular, especially following on from the delicate nose. Powerful with a lovely density but no trace of over-extraction, this is an excellent wine whose main attraction is the perfectly judged weight and balance. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Pibran
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2012 Château Pibran, Cru Bourgeois Pauillac		12 Bottles	£195
Château Pibran is owned and managed by the team at Pichon Longueville (Baron) and seems over the last few years to have really begun to come into its own. The 2012 vintage is a blend of 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and is an appealing style, with notes of damson and plum on the nose. Almost approachable now, the palate is layered, with a silky texture, very fine tannins and ripe berry fruit at the core. If not hugely complex, certainly delicious. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2026
Château Pichon-Longueville
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2012 Château Pichon-Longueville (Baron), Cru Classé Pauillac		6 Bottles	£357
Pichon Baron describe the 2012 vintage as being the vintage "where we had to fight on all fronts"; that being the case, they seem to have won! The resulting wine is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot and is a very pure and quite classically-styled Pauillac, with plenty of fresh, cassis fruit and a dense, velvety texture on the mid-palate. The tannins are firm and structural, but they - like the oak - are masked by the ripeness of the fruit at the core of this intense and delicious wine. (Robert Parker score 90-93) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Cru Classé Pauillac		6 Bottles	£324
Similarly to many other properties, Pichon Lalande were extremely selective with their fruit this year, employing rigorous work in the vineyard, but also the use of an optical sorting machine for the first time this year. This is a blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot and is darkly appealing on the nose, with notes of clove spice and black fruit. The palate shows a sense of restrained power, pure black fruits held in check by firm but fine tannins and a mineral backbone. Very good indeed. (Robert Parker Score 91-93) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Réserve de la Comtesse, Pauillac		12 Bottles	£225
The second wine of Pichon Lalande, this is ripe and appealing on the nose, with spicy red berry fruits, hints of white flowers and a touch of toasty oak. The palate shows an immediate sense of freshness, bright acidity melding with creamy-textured fine tannins and a compote of summer fruits. Highly attractive and very feminine. Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
Château Plince
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2012 Château Plince, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£219
Now under the banner of the famed Moueix dynasty, Plince is one of the larger estates in Pomerol. With Merlot as the dominant grape variety, this vintage offers a rich combination of black cherries with a burst of chocolate and tobacco. The tannins here are velvety and smooth, combining with a dart of acidity to give a well-judged sense of balance. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2024
Château Pontet-Canet
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2012 Château Pontet-Canet, Cru Classé Pauillac		6 Bottles	£345
The charming Pontet-Canet owner, Alfred Tesseron, is always keen to share his philosophies on wine-making, which are almost-entirely focussed on making the wine as pure and expressive of the terroir as possible. This year they have taken this philosophy a stage further, with a portion of the 2012 vintage matured in specifically-designed concrete amphorae that are intended to give the perfect level of lees contact - and therefore a wine with maximum purity. Certainly I know of no wine this vintage to have such a pure and expressive nature. The nose is extraordinary, much more expressive than most, with beautiful Cabernet notes of cassis, violet and blackberry. The palate displays incredibly concentrated fruit and a sensational texture, with tannins that melt in the mouth. There is such a sense energy and verve about this wine, that it is a joy to taste even at this early stage. Such is the charm and balance of this wine, that while it may be approachable at a relatively early stage, it will also age well. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2035
2012 Château Pontet-Canet, Cru Classé Pauillac		3 Bottles	£174
The charming Pontet-Canet owner, Alfred Tesseron, is always keen to share his philosophies on wine-making, which are almost-entirely focussed on making the wine as pure and expressive of the terroir as possible. This year they have taken this philosophy a stage further, with a portion of the 2012 vintage matured in specifically-designed concrete amphorae that are intended to give the perfect level of lees contact - and therefore a wine with maximum purity. Certainly I know of no wine this vintage to have such a pure and expressive nature. The nose is extraordinary, much more expressive than most, with beautiful Cabernet notes of cassis, violet and blackberry. The palate displays incredibly concentrated fruit and a sensational texture, with tannins that melt in the mouth. There is such a sense energy and verve about this wine, that it is a joy to taste even at this early stage. Such is the charm and balance of this wine, that while it may be approachable at a relatively early stage, it will also age well. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2035
2012 Château Pontet-Canet, Cru Classé Pauillac		3 Magnums	£354
The charming Pontet-Canet owner, Alfred Tesseron, is always keen to share his philosophies on wine-making, which are almost-entirely focussed on making the wine as pure and expressive of the terroir as possible. This year they have taken this philosophy a stage further, with a portion of the 2012 vintage matured in specifically-designed concrete amphorae that are intended to give the perfect level of lees contact - and therefore a wine with maximum purity. Certainly I know of no wine this vintage to have such a pure and expressive nature. The nose is extraordinary, much more expressive than most, with beautiful Cabernet notes of cassis, violet and blackberry. The palate displays incredibly concentrated fruit and a sensational texture, with tannins that melt in the mouth. There is such a sense energy and verve about this wine, that it is a joy to taste even at this early stage. Such is the charm and balance of this wine, that while it may be approachable at a relatively early stage, it will also age well. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2035
Château Potensac
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2012 Château Potensac, Cru Bourgeois Médoc		12 Bottles	£141
Château Potensac is owned by the Delon Family of Château Léoville-Las-Cases. Their wines are appealing, affordable and offer an outstanding level of quality; the 2012 is no exception to the rule. Cherries and forest fruits jump out of the glass, followed by some delicate herbaceous notes. The palate shows an array of plum and both red and black currant. The structure is firm and very concentrated; the tannins have a little grip that softens out on the long and fresh finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
Château Poujeaux
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2012 Château Poujeaux, Cru Bourgeois Moulis		12 Bottles	£186
Usually very good value for money, this year’s Poujeaux delivers a strikingly powerful nose of fresh berries and complex spice. The château describes their style as generous, yet delicate, with great sense of ‘terroir’. Elegant and supremely quaffable. Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
2012 Château Poujeaux, Cru Bourgeois Moulis		12 Bottles	£186
Usually very good value for money, this year’s Poujeaux delivers a strikingly powerful nose of fresh berries and complex spice. The château describes their style as generous, yet delicate, with great sense of ‘terroir’. Elegant and supremely quaffable. Dry, Red, Still France No Drink Dates Available
Château Puy-Blanquet
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2012 Château Puy-Blanquet, Grand Cru St-Emilion		12 Bottles	£108
A property owned by the Jacquart family, with vinification overseen by the renown house of Moueix, the soils of Chateau Puy-Blanquet are made up of clay and chalk, a perfect growing medium for the dry conditions of the 2012 summer. A traditional style ,with sweet plummy fruit and only a brush of oak. Tannins are firm and fleshy, but work in perfect harmony with the acidity. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2023
Château Rauzan-Ségla
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2012 Château Rauzan-Ségla, Cru Classé Margaux		6 Bottles	£210
Owned by Chanel, perhaps it's not unsurprising that Rauzan-Ségla is often one of the most stylish and attractive wines at the Margaux tastings! This year is no exception, displaying a very appealing glossy fruit on the nose and palate, framed by taut, ripe tannins and a freshening burst of acidity that carries through to the finish and gives this wine a real sense of poise and balance. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2032
2012 Château Rauzan-Ségla, Cru Classé Margaux		12 Bottles	£420
Owned by Chanel, perhaps it's not unsurprising that Rauzan-Ségla is often one of the most stylish and attractive wines at the Margaux tastings! This year is no exception, displaying a very appealing glossy fruit on the nose and palate, framed by taut, ripe tannins and a freshening burst of acidity that carries through to the finish and gives this wine a real sense of poise and balance. (Robert Parker Score: 93-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2020 – 2032
Château Roc des Cambes
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2012 Château Roc des Cambes, Côtes de Bourg		6 Bottles	£222
The palate is soft and sensual on the entry with layers of fleshy red berry fruit. The tannins have a Burgundy-like finesse and there is a lovely touch of Schezhuan pepper numbing the tip of the tongue on the finish. This will be a fascinating Roc de Combes – Neal Martin. (Neal Martin score 90 – 92) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2025
Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte
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2012 Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£450
Meticulous attention to detail throughout the growing season and double the usual number of pickers and sorters at harvest time have resulted in what must be one of the best Pessacs in 2012. Comprising 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. The nose is open and expressive with attractive floral components whilst the palate is initially lush, plummy and impressively weighted. Ripe, structural tannins coat the mouth leading to a long, savoury finish. (Robert Parker score 92-94) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2028
Château Sociando-Mallet
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2012 Château Sociando-Mallet, Haut-Médoc		12 Bottles	£219
Sociando Mallet is always one of the more serious, age-worthy wines produced in the Haut-Médoc and can certainly be considered of Cru Classé quality. 2012 shows fantastic concentration, with glorious rich cassis and black cherry fruit. There is already some complexity, with an intriguing mineral, almost saline quality, that is reminiscent of olives. Made in a firm and tannic style this wine demands sometime in the cellar, but will richly reward those with patience. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2035
Château St-Pierre
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2012 Château St-Pierre, Cru Classé St-Julien		12 Bottles	£339
One of the smaller properties in the region, St-Pierre is home to some very old vines, which give some depth and character to its wines. This is a layered and intense 2012, with dark fruit and woodsmoke on the nose, leading through to pure berry fruit on the palate and a crushed stone mineral character. Velvet-textured and mouthfilling, this is a glossy, but balanced wine with a long and stylish finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
Château Talbot
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2012 Château Talbot, Cru Classé St-Julien		12 Bottles	£297
This 107 hectare St-Julien estate often makes reliable Claret at good to great value. The perfumed nose reveals gentle aromas of ripe dark berry fruits and woodsmoke, whilst the palate is ripe and rich – with the alcohol well in balance, well integrated, fine tannins and a pure, fresh finish. This is a charming wine and, whilst not a blockbuster, will provide graceful, stylish drinking. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Château Teyssier
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2012 Le Dôme, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru		6 Bottles	£399
The 2012 exhibits a deep purple color along with abundant aromas of blueberries, mulberries, spring flowers, white chocolate and spice. This supple-textured, medium to full-bodied wine has finesse, but it does not sacrifice any concentration, depth or length. Drink it over the next 15+ years. There are approximately 1,000 cases of the 2012 Le Dome, which includes one of the highest percentages of Cabernet Franc of any Bordeaux wine (80%). While harvested between October 8 and 18, the heavy rain that occurred has not diluted this beautifully scented and layered St.-Emilion. (Robert Parker Score - 92-94 Points) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2025
2012 Vieux Château Mazerat, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru		6 Bottles	£339
Mulberry, black cherry, kirsch, lavender, spring flower and crushed chalk-like notes emerge from this well-endowed, medium to full-bodied, rich, fragrant wine that displays both nobility and raciness. The tannins are apparent in this big, impressively endowed 2012. It should drink well for 15-20 years. There is the famed Vieux Chateau Certan (known by wine geeks as VCC) and now there is VCM from Jonathan Malthus. Surrounded on three sides by the famous Chateau Canon and near to both Angelus and Beausejour-Duffau, Vieux Chateau Mazerat tends to be about two-thirds Merlot and one-third Cabernet Franc (from vines planted in 1947). (Robert Parker Score - 92-94 Points) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2023
Château Troplong-Mondot
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château Troplong-Mondot, Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£297
"One of the superstars of the vintage, it boasts an inky/purple color as well as abundant notes of blueberry liqueur, graphite, truffles, acacia flowers and subtle toast. Full-bodied, opulent and already easy to drink, this large-scaled wine possesses high levels of tannin, but they are relatively well-concealed by the extravagant fruit, glycerin, texture and density of this compelling Troplong Mondot. This impressive wine may shut down after bottling and require 4-5 years of cellaring. It has the potential to last at least 15-20 years. Bravo! " 94-96 points, Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2035
Clos Fourtet
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LOW STOCK 2012 Clos Fourtet, 1er Grand Cru Classé St-Emilion		6 Bottles	£249
83% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon. A favourite from the Saint-Emilion tasting, with a nose which was initially redolent of fig roll biscuits. Real freshness shone through, with ripe silky tannins and a floral hit, combined with fantastic length. (Robert Parker Score 93-95) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
Domaine de Chevalier
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2012 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£333
One of the few crus classés where the owner actually lives on-site, Domaine de Chevalier is renowned for its white, although its red is becoming increasingly well-known also. This is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Fresh on the nose, with dark fruits and a touch of spice. The palate is dense, dark fruit focussed, but with a red currant acidity that gives lift and poise to the wine. Supple, elegant and delicious; a great Pessac. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
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2012 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£324
The 2012 vintage has been exceptional for dry whites and Domaine de Chevalier makes one of the best and most sought-after in any vintage. This therefore an unsurprise star of our tastings and one of our picks for the vintage. Floral and fresh on the nose, with notes of preserved lemon and green galia melon. These characters continue onto the palate, which is broad and mouthfilling, yet is framed by a grapefruit-skin character, lively acidity and linear mineral drive. Toned and bright, this is white Bordeaux as it should be! Dry, White, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
2012 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		3 Magnums	£333
Dry, White, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
La Petite Eglise
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2012 La Petite Eglise, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£124.50
The baby brother of l'Eglise-Clinet, which is widely tipped to be one of the wines of the vintage in 2012, Petite Eglise offers great value. Attractive and fragrant on the nose, with an almost heady violet character. The palate has a layered texture, with soft black and blue fruits, a touch of spice and a creamy oak note. Effortlessly balanced and appealing. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
No Producer
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LOW STOCK 2012 Château de Fonbel, Grand Cru St-Emilion		3 Double Magnums	£131
Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
LOW STOCK 2012 Château de Fonbel, Grand Cru St-Emilion		6 Magnums	£120
Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2022
2012 Château Capbern-Gasqueton, Cru Bourgeois St-Estèphe		12 Bottles	£129
Not a second wine to Calon, but a separate St-Estèphe property, Capbern-Gasqueton offers great value for money. Like Calon itself, this is under new ownership, but the management of the estate itself remains unchanged. Pure on the nose, with red berry fruit and a touch of woodsmoke. The palate is taut and reined in, with a mouthwatering core of fruit and an elegant structure. Pretty, poised and pure. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
2012 Château Talbot, Cru Classé St-Julien		24 Halves	£312
This 107 hectare St-Julien estate often makes reliable Claret at good to great value. The perfumed nose reveals gentle aromas of ripe dark berry fruits and woodsmoke, whilst the palate is ripe and rich – with the alcohol well in balance, well integrated, fine tannins and a pure, fresh finish. This is a charming wine and, whilst not a blockbuster, will provide graceful, stylish drinking. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
2012 Château Malescot St-Exupéry, Cru Classé Margaux		6 Bottles	£165
Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2026
2012 Alter Ego de Château Palmer, Margaux		6 Magnums	£450
51% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Alluring aromas of morello cherry, chocolate and a hint of pencil lead draw you into the glass. These characters are reflected too on the palate, with layers of silk, satin and velvet. Finishing with a shot of vanilla and nutmeg and drawing out into a huge long lingering finish. A stylish wine with finesse and class. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2025
2012 Château Mauvesin-Barton, Moulis en Médoc		12 Bottles	£117
Owned and managed by the team at Léoville Barton, this is appealing on the nose, with notes of fresh fragrant forest fruits. The palate is soft, layered and attractive, with a deep core of plum, damson and red fruit. The tannins are very fine and well-integrated and there is a lovely fresh purity to the finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2028
2012 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Cru Classé Pauillac		6 Bottles	£171
“The Grand-Puy-Lacoste 2012 is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot picked between 3rd and 16th October at 36hl/ha and matured in 75% new oak. The aromatics are reticent at first, demand coaxing from the glass. It reluctantly offers blackberry, small dark cherries and a fragrant seaweed scent. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, grainy tannins that appear fully ripe. There is a very attractive symmetry to this wine, wonderful focus with a fresh, refined finish that is not powerful like the 2009 or 2010, but offers a pleasant salty tang. This is a well crafted wine for the vintage.” 92-94 points, Neal Martin, The Wine Advocate Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
2012 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£168
One of the few crus classés where the owner actually lives on-site, Domaine de Chevalier is renowned for its white, although its red is becoming increasingly well-known also. This is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Fresh on the nose, with dark fruits and a touch of spice. The palate is dense, dark fruit focussed, but with a red currant acidity that gives lift and poise to the wine. Supple, elegant and delicious; a great Pessac. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2028
LOW STOCK 2012 Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£225
Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2028
2012 Vieux Château Certan, Pomerol		3 Magnums	£534
Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
2012 Château Providence, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£288
The first year we have been offered this wine, which we eagerly snapped up. Stylistically similar to the great Trotanoy, this is in the mineral stlye – extremely refined, with juicy and peppery red/black fruit and chunkier tannins than some, yet with lace-like acidity and great drive. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2016 – 2030
2012 Château Malartic-Lagravière Rouge, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£243
This Belgian-owned estate has been making brilliant white and red Graves. Another beauty in a more difficult vintage than either 2009 or 2010, the 2012 Malartic Lagraviere is further evidence of how successful this vintage was in Pessac-Leognan. It possesses a dense purple color as well as a sumptuous perfume of creme de cassis, licorice, bay leaf, lead pencil shavings and barbecue smoke. Medium to full-bodied and richly fruity with soft tannin, surprising length and an impressive mid-palate (a rarity in 2012), it should drink well for 15 years – Robert Parker. (Robert Parker score 91 – 93) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Château Malartic-Lagravière Rouge, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		6 Bottles	£123
This Belgian-owned estate has been making brilliant white and red Graves. Another beauty in a more difficult vintage than either 2009 or 2010, the 2012 Malartic Lagraviere is further evidence of how successful this vintage was in Pessac-Leognan. It possesses a dense purple color as well as a sumptuous perfume of creme de cassis, licorice, bay leaf, lead pencil shavings and barbecue smoke. Medium to full-bodied and richly fruity with soft tannin, surprising length and an impressive mid-palate (a rarity in 2012), it should drink well for 15 years – Robert Parker. (Robert Parker score 91 – 93) Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2018 – 2030
2012 Château Rouget, Pomerol		12 Bottles	£264
“The 2012 boasts a deep blue/purple color along with a big, sweet nose of kirsch liqueur, lavender, balsam wood, truffles and lead pencil shavings. The complex aromatics are followed by a full-bodied, opulently-textured, fleshy wine that has more in common with a 2009 than most 2012s tend to possess. This outstanding sleeper of the vintage should drink well for 10-15 years. “ 90-93 Points, Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2014 – 2025
White wines	Tasting notes: Show all \| Hide all
2012 Château Smith-Haut-Lafitte Blanc, Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£648
Under the capable hands of the Cathiard family, this property has been producing fabulous red and white wines. The 2012, another brilliant effort, exhibits notes of orange rind, figs, mangoes, pineapples and caramelized citrus presented in a full-bodied, heady, powerful style - Robert Parker (93-95) Dry, White, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030
2012 G de Guiraud, Bordeaux Blanc Sec		6 Bottles	£42
G de Guiraud has been a favourite of the Lay & Wheeler team for the last couple of vintages and 2012 looks to be no exception. Fragrant pure on the nose with notes of soft lemon and white flowers, the palate is bright and mouthwateringly fresh. Notes of lemon, gardenia and a touch of sea salt are framed by a tense mineral structure and carry through onto a long finish. Undeniably excellent value. "70% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Sémillon, 80% fermented in ex-Sauternes barrels, the rest in steel. Tangy aroma of orange zest. Very very fresh with grapefruit pith tang and a very slight grain. Refined and lively all at once. Fine dry length." 17 points, Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com Sauvignon Blanc 70% / Semillon 30% Dry, White, Still France Improving/Ready 2013 – 2020
2012 Château Malartic-Lagravière Blanc, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan		12 Bottles	£393
Fatter, richer and more honeyed than usual, this 2012 is a top-notch success. It exhibits abundant glycerin, a layered, full-bodied mouthfeel, plenty of honeyed tropical fruits (pineapples), a striking minerality and a long finish. It should drink well for a decade or more – Robert Parker. (Robert Parker score 91 – 94) Dry, White, Still France Leave 2015 – 2022
2012 Château Doisy Daëne, Grand Vin Sec, Bordeaux		12 Bottles	£129
Dry, White, Still France No Drink Dates Available
Vieux Château Certan
Red wines	Tasting notes: Show all \| Hide all
2012 Vieux Château Certan, Pomerol		6 Bottles	£525
The wines from Pomerol have really excelled this vintage and Vieux Château Certan is clearly one of the best. For 2012 there is just 1% of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend, 87% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc. Harvest was from the 1st to the 11th October and the latest on record, which gives the richness to the Merlot and opulence and density of fruit, and to the Cabernet Franc more aromatics. A very classy wine, satin textured and refined, with chocolate, plum and damson. A little savoury touch on the end and a huge, apparently never-ending finish. Dry, Red, Still France Leave 2015 – 2030

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Contact Address: Lay & Wheeler Limited, Holton Park, Holton St Mary, Suffolk CO7 6NN

Registered Address: Lay & Wheeler Limited, Majestic House, Otterspool Way, Watford, WD25 8WW, England

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