2012 Duhart-Milon Rothschild
By Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild
2012 Duhart-Milon Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France
The 2012 vintage from Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the historic Pauillac terroir amidst climatic challenges. Under the esteemed Rothschild name, this vintage exudes sophistication and a compelling depth that calls for connoisseur recognition.
A Vintage Graced by Patience and Precision
The growing season that bestowed its unique identity upon the 2012 Duhart-Milon Rothschild was marked by unpredictability – a cool spring followed by a challenging summer, eventually redeemed by a generous autumn. This oscillation between extremes carved an intricate profile into this Pauillac stalwart.
In its current complexion, the wine is a mosaic of cassis, graphite, and subtle spiced wood aromas. On the palate, the wine showcases thoughtful balance between ripe blackberry nuances and a persistent tannic structure – heralding from careful oak maturation and an immaculate selection of grapes.
A Strategic Acquisition for the Astute Investor
For fine wine investors discerning the nuanced landscape of Bordeaux investments, the 2012 Duhart-Milon Rothschild emerges as an intriguing proposition. Whilst seeking out vintages that represent both quality and value amidst the storied lineage of Chateau Duhart-Milon Rothschild, this particular offering bears enticing potential for medium-term cellaring.
On a trajectory of maturation that suggests rewarding complexity in years to come, it nevertheless possesses a present harmony that invites early appreciation. With its structural integrity and layered expressions awaiting unfurling, it is one piece in an investor's portfolio likely to yield satisfaction both sensorially and financially.
In summary, as one examines the tapestry of vintages produced under Pauillac's watchful eye, the 2012 Duhart-Milon Rothschild stands out with a character shaped by vintage circumstances garnering it unique distinction. Its eloquent expression of place and time is already resonant, promising further profundity with each additional year passed in repose.
Market price (HKD)
HK$6,320.00
12x75cl
Highest score
91
POP score
60
Scores and tasting notes
Firm and pretty with fine tannins and lovely fruit. Medium-bodied, with good fruit and a medium finish.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, April 21st 2013
This property has enjoyed the considerable investments from the Rothschild family and the quality of the wines over the last generation has been increasingly impressive. I’ve always written that if you can’t afford Lafite Rothschild, why not try Duhart Milon, which is not far off the quality of its much more famous neighbor. Spicy, deep ruby/purple with notes of cassis, cedar wood and spice box, the wine is soft, round, juicy, medium-bodied and ideal for drinking now and over the next 15 or so years. It is not one of their finest efforts, but it is certainly well-made, supple-textured and seductive.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2015
Tasted en primeur at the chateau. The Duhart Milon-Rothschild is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot cropped between 27th September and 17th October. It has a tightly wound bouquet that demands coaxing (perhaps because of the low pressure that day.) There are broody black fruit, sous-bois and graphite, but missing a little vigour. The palate is medium-bodied with a saline note on the entry. The tannins are quite fine, though it is missing a little weight in the mid-palate and on the finish. It is an understated Duhart, one that will be more approachable that other recent vintages. Tasted April 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013
A blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot, this 2012 exhibits good ripeness as well as a strong herbaceous streak throughout the aromas and flavors. It is a very good, medium-bodied effort, but it is not as exceptional as some of the Duharts we have seen in recent vintages (2008, 2009 and 2010). It is slightly richer than the second wine of Lafite Rothschild, Carruades.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #206