2012 Domaine du Castel Grand Vin

The 2012 Grand Vin is a blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 17% Petit Verdot, aged for 20 months in 60% new French oak. It comes in at 15% alcohol. Adding a layer or two of depth and a bit of perfume from oak to the Petit Castel also reviewed this issue, this is still beautifully balanced and wonderfully elegant in the mid-palate. It has a fresh, clean feel, with moderate pop and persistence on the finish. It never seems heavy in mid-palate concentration, but it doesn't disappear, either. Laced with fruit flavor and just a tinge of vanilla, this graceful but powerful Grand Vin is not yet ready to drink. It does need some settle-down time. The next day, it was far more charming, showing both elegance and fine balance, although it was not quite as attention getting. After being in a glass for an hour on Day 2, it showed beautiful texture, a perfect demeanor and impeccable harmony, finishing with some length and flavor. I liked it a lot--never obvious, always attractive. It may yet be entitled to an uptick.