The Lanessan 2012 has a slight herbaceous, tertiary bouquet that is light but well defined. It opens nicely in the glass, revealing a hidden effervescent quality. The palate is medium-bodied with chalky tannins on the entry. There is a fine bead of acidity here, an understated finish that is clean and fresh – reflective of the vintage. It is not the most exciting wine on the planet, but it will be one of those bottle you will enjoy to the very last drop at the dinner table. Tasted April 2013.

A decent effort in this tough vintage for some of the Médoc wines, Lanessan’s 2012 has some nice suppleness to the tannin, cranberry and black cherry fruit, plum and blackcurrants. It is medium-bodied with earth, herbs and spice. Drink it over the next decade.

Very aromatic and beguiling; not forced but a bit simple. Drink 2016-2023.