2012 Petrus, Pomerol, Bordeaux

Very lively and invigorating, delivering flavors of raspberry ganache, briar, bay and red licorice. Shows ample energy, with mouthwatering acidity coursing along. Displays power but not aggression. Despite the briary tannins, this delivers excellent range and length. Tasted non-blind.

Inky core. Highly aromatic and beautifully spiced fruit. Both pure and complex on the nose. Aromatic on the palate with fine-grained but deep, welcoming tannins. Hint of smokiness, just so perfumed already. Lovely cassis, velvety and open but with the structure and harmony to age gracefully. Finishes dry and velvety too. Lacks the edge of youth. Almost too gentle at this stage in its life.

Tasted blind at the Southwold 2012 tasting, the 2012 Petrus demonstrated a forward, fruit-driven, ripe raspberry and wild strawberry bouquet underneath which lies graphite and forest floor aromas. It seems refined, understated, nonchalant even. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly savory opening, as if there was a tiny drop of Cabernet Franc. The tannins are fine but firm, the red fruit infused with cooked meat, black pepper and sage notes, although I was anticipating a finish armed with more body. That may well develop in time, yet it remains a regal Pomerol that will probably merit a higher score with bottle age, hence the plus-sign against the score.