An intriguing blend of 48% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, this inky purple-colored wine is ripe, progressively styled, big, rich, thick and juicy. In other words, the 2012 Lascombes is loaded. No doubt the high percentage of Merlot in the final blend gives this wine a fleshiness and succulence that is unusual in the Médoc. Rich, pure and full, it should hit its prime in another 4-5 years and last at least two or three decades.

An outstanding wine in this vintage, the full-bodied 2012 Lascombes reveals more power, concentration and texture than many of its peers. Its dense blue/purple color is followed by notes of acacia flowers, blueberries, black raspberries, black currants, vanillin and toast. Medium to full-bodied with excellent texture (for a 2012), as well as good follow through and length, this soft, plush, outstanding Margaux should drink well for 12-15 years.

A wine with a pretty fruit character. Full and velvety with a medium center palate. Refined and attractive.

Shows a lightly briary frame to the red currant paste and steeped raspberry fruit. The finish is lined with a firm charcoal edge. Offers pretty fruit and a polished feel, but lacks stuffing in the end. —J.M.

Dark purplish crimson. Very fresh nose. Good integrity. Though quite sweet on the palate and very drying oak tannins on the finish. Quite demanding. But there is some succulence here. Drink 2024-2030.

50% Merlot. Very different from the Labégorce just tasted. Smells sweeter and more plummy and a strong (oak-derived?) coffee note. But it seems to lack concentration in the middle and feels suprisingly light though not lean. Starts well but lacks something at the end. (JH)