2012 Quinault l'Enclos

The 2012 Quinault l'Enclos has a fresh and quite vigorous bouquet that bounds from the glass: blackberry, briary and light tobacco notes intermingle with undergrowth, though it shows a little oxidation after several minutes. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, fleshy with gentle grip. This feels quite harmonious in the mouth with a white pepper tinged finish that comes across a little smudged and lightweight. Tasted blind at the Southwold Ten-Year On tasting.

Tasted blind. Ruby rim. Sweet, dusty nose. Lacks a bit of juice in the middle. Furry finish. Not the most refreshing wine. Not popular. (JR)

The 2012 Quinault l'Enclos was described as the first vintage whereby they made the wine they wanted, according to technical director, Pierre-Olivier Clouet. It certainly has a winsome nose with cedar and iodine aromas, all very pure and charming. The palate is medium-bodied with lithe tannins, a wine built on its purity, though I do find it just a little monotone towards the finish. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at Berry, Brothers & Rudd.