2012 Virginie de Valandraud

The 2012 Virginie de Valandraud is a huge step up from the 3 de Valandraud. Dark, sensual and inviting, the 2012 possesses lovely depth in the open-knit, succulent style of the year. Mocha, black cherries, menthol, spices and licorice add the final shades of nuance. This is a gorgeous second wine. It should drink well for a handful of years. The blend is 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc.

Delicious blackcurrant, black cherry fruit, a dark ruby/purple color and sweet tannin characterize this relatively soft, plump, medium-bodied St.-Emilion. It is in no way comparable to the brilliance and profound quality of its bigger sister, Valandraud, but it is a pleasant wine. Drink it over the next decade.

Dark smudgy crimson, dry and almost austere but really refined in its dry tannin structure. There's tight fruit underneath too. Sophisticated. (JH)