The 2012 d’Aiguilhe enjoyed low yields of 25 hectoliters per hectare and the final blend was 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc that came in at 14% alcohol. This large production cuvee comes from a 175-acre vineyard. Full-bodied with beautiful black currant, licorice, lead pencil shavings and forest floor characteristics with a touch of smoky oak in the background, this opulent, round, complete wine should drink well for 7-8 years. D’Aiguilhe has been a consistent winner for a number of vintages. One of the Stephan von Neipperg estates (all of which merit attention), Stephane Derenoncourt is the consultant.

A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2012 offers ripe mulberry and crème de cassis aromas on the nose that is already showy, but maintains fine freshness and focus. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, much more fruit than the Clos Marsalette and a structured, almost Cabernet-style finish. Fine. Tasted April l2013.

A pretty wine with bitter chocolate, dark berries and hints of minerals. Full body with fine tannins and a medium finish.

Dark ruby. Slightly medicinal but sweet aromas of cassis, licorice and violet complicated by cocoa powder. Juicy, tight and fine-grained, with soft acidity giving a supple quality to the cassis and floral flavors. Shows good flavor intensity on the persistent, sweet finish. Lacks the concentration of the better vintages, but this should make a lovely bottle.

One of the better wines from Castillon, this wine, from the Neipperg family, exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, nice spice, earth and red and black fruits. It is medium-bodied with light tannin and a soft underbelly. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. A sleeper.

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Inky crimson. Gently spiced cassis, perhaps a hint of ginger. Much denser than I expected. Chewy and deep and generous. Bags of flavour and structure, all waiting to coalesce, plus a finesse to the tannins and good length. Drink 2017-2024 (JH)