The 2012 Haut-Marbuzet has soft plummy red fruit on the nose with dried herbs and light rose petal scents, just a touch of shoe leather. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, fine acidity, slightly ferrous towards the finish that is nicely proportioned, a touch of black pepper lingering on the aftertaste. This Saint-Estèphe conveys a sense of fun. Tasted blind at the Southwold Ten-Year On tasting.

This is really well done for the vintage with a pretty depth of fruit and quality tannins. Full body, with wonderful integration already of fruit, tannins and acidity, and a long finish. Excellent winemaking.

The 2012 is a velvety textured, surprisingly lush, easygoing style of wine, with sweet tannin, medium body, nice black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, judicious use of oak and a lush finish. Drink it over the next 8-10 years.