2012 Sociando Mallet Cuvee Jean Gautreau

The 2012 Cuvée Jean Gautreau is a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc picked between September 28 and October 15. It has more definition and vivacity than the 2011, offering black fruit, tobacco and graphite notes; the Cabernet is clearly in the driver’s seat while Merlot gives directions. The ripe palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin. This is perhaps the most modern in style of all the Cuvée Jean Gautreaus that I have tasted, yet there is panache here, and it feels long and tender in the mouth. Tasted at the vertical tasting at Sociando-Mallet.