Château Margaux, 1er Cru Classé, Margaux, 2012
Paul Pontallier told us that in 2012 it was not a matter of being a Merlot of Cabernet vinatge; it was a 'terror vintage'. We had heard reports that Margaux had not performed in 2012, but this was clearly misinformation as we found three sensational wines, full of Margaux grace and charm. The grand vin will account for on 34% of the production in 2012. Cabernet Sauvignon accounts for 87% of the blend with 10% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% petit Verdot. This is classical with a capital C. Wonderful perfume of violets, gravelly minerality, fine herbs, mulberry jam, raspberry liqueur and cassis. On the palate there are waves of dense velvety fruit, dark loganberries and bright red fruit. It is fleet of foot, sappy, effortless, lithe, serious, refined, elegant and complex. A complete Margaux.
critic reviews
Medium to deep garnet colored, the 2012 Chateau Margaux opens with notes of new leather, plum preserves, and unsmoked cigars with hints of iron ore, dried herbs, and a medicinal waft. The medium-bodied palate has soft, approachable tannins and a lively line cutting through the savory layers, finishing minerally.
The 2012 Château Margaux has a refined bouquet with blackberry, briary, light cedar scents and a touch of leather. Not quite as well-defined as its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, though not amazingly complex, and at this level, I would have expected more weight on the finish. This is a fine Château Margaux and yet it deprived the concentration and complexity of a top vintage and is challenged by its peers. Tasted twice at Bordeaux Index's Ten Year-On tasting and blind at the Southwold Ten-Year On tasting.
Graceful, nuanced, totally moriesh. Hugely successful at the 10 year mark, this is rippled with raspberry, white pepper, smoked earth, blond tobacco, cold ash, blueberry and star anise. One of my stars of the lineup, mouthwatering and full of cheer, with waves of fine tannins that are guiding the fruit from beginning to end. Above all finessed but not afraid of pleasure, a balanced Château Margaux that has plenty of time ahead of it. 34% of overall production.