2012 Lafleur
By Chateau Lafleur
2012 Lafleur from Chateau Lafleur, Pomerol, Bordeaux
The 2012 vintage from Chateau Lafleur presents an erudite specimen of Pomerol artistry, one that sings a less common tune on the Bordeaux stage – it is a symphony of resilience and unexpected sophistication given the challenge posed by the capriciousness of the year's climate. My foray into this concoction's depths revealed a character distinct from its yearly brethren.
Investment Merit & Vintage Virtue
The story of 2012 in Bordeaux is one woven with climatic trepidation – a wet spring followed by a challenging summer, punctuating the need for astute viticultural prowess. Chateau Lafleur, steadfast in their dedication, harnessed this unpredictability to their advantage. The result is a 2012 Lafleur that offers investors not merely wine but a testament to skilled cultivation and masterful winemaking.
A Profile of Refined Power and Elegance
The claret from Chateau Lafleur's 2012 harvest articulates the balance between vigour and precision. Its bouquet hosts an assembly of dark cherries and truffles, embroidered with subtle hints of violet and licorice – a nexus where power meets finesse. On the palate, the tannins reveal themselves as assertive, yet well-rounded by age; they dance alongside plush fruitiness in an ensemble that speaks of admirable longevity.
Oenophiles will discern the elegance that is synonymous with right-bank virtuosity, nestling in each sip. And as much as Pomerol's terroir has proven its might through time, so too does this vintage underscore the inherent potential for rewarding maturation.
In summary, the narrative of 2012 at Chateau Lafleur is one of triumphant vintner acumen; it stands as a collectible work from a chapter challenged by nature, yet unyielding in quality. This particular odyssey through flavoursome realms carves a secure notch on the investor's belt and enchants with every savoured drop. For earnest collectors and enthusiasts alike, securing the 2012 Lafleur is to own a piece of Bordeaux resilience – a wise addition to any diversified portfolio of fine wines.Market price (USD)
$6,100.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
312.5
Scores and tasting notes
This is subtle yet so deep with blackberry, wet earth, stone and berries. It's full-bodied, with superfine tannins and wonderful length. Everything is at the end of the palate. This will be better than 2011. It's really about clarity and harmony. Yes. The winemaker says a special lot of Merlot picked on September the 23 really made this wine what it is. Stunning.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, November 14th 2013
The Grand Vin is a blend of 46% Merlot picked on 23rd September and 54% Cabernet Franc picked on 6th October cropped at around 32hl/ha. The Merlot is quite expressive on the nose once again with redcurrant and raspberry scents intermingling with wilted rose petal scents and flinty notes. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly chalky tannins on the entry. The acidity is crisp and lifted. This is a more masculine Lafleur: a little broody as it so often is at this primordial stage, the oak (around 25% new) waiting patiently in the background. There is good weight here and finish has a generosity and openness that is unusual for the vintage. Tasted April 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013
Reminiscent of the 2001 Lafleur, the 2012 is supple and elegant as well as impressively pure, textured and medium-bodied, with sensual kirsch-like fruit intermixed with loamy soil, licorice and incense notes. While not particularly powerful, it possesses a deep ruby color with purple nuances, and is stunningly pure with no hard edges. This 2012 will be drinking well by age 5 or 6 (atypical for a young Lafleur), and should keep for 15 or more. Baptiste Guinaudeau, the young, tall proprietor of this tiny treasure on the Plateau of Pomerol, harvested his Merlot at a perfect moment, September 23, and finished with the Cabernet Franc on October 6, several days before a huge deluge inundated Bordeaux. He spoke of 46 straight days with no rain, which created hydric stress in parts of their vineyard. The final blend for the 2012 Lafleur was 54% Cabernet Franc and 46% Merlot. Yields were low, never having surpassed 40 hectoliters per hectare in over 30 years, even in abundant years such as 1990 and 1982.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #206