2012 Château Poujeaux

The 2012 Poujeaux offers up scents of crushed flowers, sweet tobacco, mint, spice and licorice, all in a plump, juicy style. I would prefer to drink the 2012 sooner rather than later, while the fruit retains its freshness. This is a lovely showing from Poujeaux and the Cuvelier family, who also own Clos Fourtet, Grandes Murailles and Cote du Balue.

Now under the administration of new owner Philippe Cuvelier (owner of Clos Fourtet), Poujeaux has dramatically improved the quality. The 2012, a blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 43% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc, is a very good Moulis. With a dense ruby/purple color, nice cassis fruit, medium-bodied texture, soft tannins and a fleshy, nicely textured mouthfeel, it should drink well for 10-12 years.