Pichon Lalande 2012

Pauillac, Second Growth

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Tasting Notes

The grande dame, the 2012 Pichon Lalande represents only 50% of their harvest production. It has soft, round tannins, endearing elegance, and up-front fruit. It is not a blockbuster, but its lush, richly fruity style is charming and seductive, with raspberry, blueberry, mocha and blackcurrant fruit and a deep ruby/purple color. This medium-bodied, supple-textured wine is surprisingly precocious and forward, and therefore best drunk over the next 15 years. The final blend was 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot.

Score: 90

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2015-2030 01 April 2015

Coming in at a lofty 13.2% natural alcohol, it offers up scents of black currants, white chocolate, berries, cedar and forest floor. Sweet tannin, a round opulence and medium body result in a classic, supple-textured Pauillac that should drink well young and keep for 12-15 years. It is very much in keeping with what most readers would consider the “house style” of Pichon Lalande, despite the fact that they are moving toward more Cabernet Sauvignon and less Petit Verdot in the final blend.

Score: 91 - 93

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2013-2028 26 April 2013

A gutsy, terroir-driven style, with briar-edged grip carrying notes of macerated black currant fruit, fig and plum sauce. Shows lots of dark anise through the finish, along with roasted apple wood and a hint of cassis bush. Delivers excellent range, purity and energy. Best from 2018 through 2027.

Score: 92

James Molesworth, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2018-2027 15 January 2015

Juicy and forward in feel, with a core of red currant and cherry paste, backed by notes of savory, plum skin and roasted vanilla bean that steadily emerge through the finish. Gains weight with aeration, displaying a more rounded feel than most of this vintage's Pauillacs.

Score: 89 - 92

James Molesworth, Wine Spectator 08 April 2013

Round, relaxed and easy though without massive concentration. Gentle and not the most ambitious, but fresh and lively and good punch. Attractive finish. Hums along.. Very dry on the finish. 13%

Score: 16 - 17

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2020-2030 24 April 2013

Focused and very pretty with ultra-fine tannins and dark chocolate, dark fruit. Fine texture. A beautiful center palate and finesse here. Creamy tannins. 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot.

Score: 92 - 93

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 04 April 2013