2012 Clos St Martin

The 2012 Clos Saint-Martin has a more open bouquet than the 2010, still underpinned by mainly red berry fruit laced with decaying autumn leaves and sous-bois aromas. There is a sense of airiness, coupled with admirable delineation, which together render the aromatics superior to those of the preceding vintage. The palate is medium-bodied and displays a powdery texture, the acidity very well judged and lending fine tension from start to finish. More black fruit develops with aeration, likewise more graphite and cedar notes that are reminiscent of Figeac. Very fine. You could drink this now, but I might cellar it for another two or three years. Tasted at a vertical of recent vintages at the château.

Tasted blind. Dark crimson and some liqueur-like ripeness on the nose. Just a little awkward in terms of oaking and tannins. Definitely not settled yet. A bit of sandpaper on the finish. (JR)

The 2012 Clos Saint-Martin is supple, forward and pretty much ready to go. A decidedly plump Saint-Emilion, the Clos Saint-Martin shows the more charming, easygoing side of the vintage. Red stone fruit, mint and expressive floral notes add to the wine's considerable appeal.