2012 La Grave a Pomerol

This property of the Moueix stable always produces a somewhat lighter style of Pomerol, but they have certainly delivered more intensity in 2012. This wine is savory, rich, broad, medium-bodied and loaded with fruit. It is not the most complex or profound of the Moueix Pomerols, but it is impressive, promising and drinkable already. You can expect it to evolve for 10-15 years.

The elegant, light-weight 2012 La Grave a Pomerol exhibits notes of cherries, balsam wood and underbrush, medium body and little tannin. It is a pleasant, picnic-styled Pomerol to drink over the next 7-8 years. This slightly herbaceous Pomerol displays some of the maturity issues encountered by vineyards planted in sandy soils, even in the Right Bank where the maturity curve was far ahead of the Cabernet Sauvignon in the Medoc.

Perfumed with violets and fine dark fruit. Tastes rather Cabernet-like on the palate – more upright than voluptuous. Quite restrained but just a little bit stringy on the finish. Aroma better than palate. (JH)