2012 Château Couhins-Lurton Grand Vin De Graves

The special clay-gravel terroir of Château Couhins-Lurton has given birth to a great left bank Merlot: it stands out in the appellation for its extreme finesse and intensity of fruit on the finish. Its nobility and ageing potential are a credit to its rank.Tasting NotesColourIntense, black-rimmed with violet.NoseThe nose is dominated by the fruit: the ripe black cherry and blackberry aromas are intense but delicately highlighted by mild tobacco and lightly roasted notes. Very skillful barrel aging allows the oak to blend perfectly as a counterpoint to the fruit.PalateVery smooth, appears fat and soft… The tannins are ripe, melting and remarkably dense. Often described as jammy, but there are also spices and mild tobacco in the mix. The finish is long and lingering, with fruit that coats the palate. Production Fermentation in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats and aged for 12 months in oak barrels (40% new) with racking.VintageWhile January and February were colder than average, 2009 was nevertheless a warm year (one of the warmest in a century). There was a great deal of sunshine and a remarkable drought during the summer months.Review & AwardsJancisRobinson.com 17.5/20″Really very subtle on the nose with some development at the rim and it has been judged just right – both texture and flavour are great. Better than many a grand cru. So much pleasure and balance. Opulent but not sweet or fat or raisined. Drink 2016-2028.”The Wine Spectator 94/100″Loads of crushed sweet berries on the nose, with fresh herbs and licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, polished and soft texture on the end. And plenty of fruit. So pretty. Really impressive red from here.” (James Suckling)SpecificationsYear2012Bottle Size750mlCultivar Merlot 77% / Cabernet Sauvignon 23%CountryFranceAlcohol content14.5% alc vol Units of Alcohol per Bottle10.5 unitsTypeRed WineDietary InformationVegetarian ApprovedAllergen InformationContains sulphites & egg fining agentsFood MatchesEnjoy with slow-cooked or roast meats. Delightful with confit. Cellaring PotentialCan age up to 10-15 yearsOriginBordeauxAppellationAOC Pessac-Léognan