Classification | Cru Classe |
Type | Red |
Brand | Chateau Belair-Monange |
Vintage | 2012 |
Country | France |
Region | Bordeaux, St. Emilion |
Grape | Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Bordeaux Blend |
Volume | 0,75 |
Condition | Perfect |
Label | Perfect |
Drinkable | 2017-2035 |
Stock | 0 |
With some of the oldest vines in all of Bordeaux, especially one parcel from 1905, Belair Monange’s 2012 (14.5% alcohol) is a tribute to this great terroir that was poorly managed and exploited prior to the family of Jean-Pierre Moueix taking over. Now it is Christian Moueix and his son Edouard who manage the property and produce the wine. The 2012 is a beauty, with a deep ruby/purple color, complex notes of minerals, crushed rock, red and black fruits, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, great texture, long finish and true ability and character. It should age beautifully for 20 or more years and yet be drinkable another three or four. Production is small, as only 1,300 cases were produced.
This is marked by a pleasantly firm chalky thread which frames and carries the core of pure damson plum, bitter cherry and red currant fruit. Light floral and alder notes hang in the background, while the minerality stretches everything out on the finish. Refined, restrained, long and should cellar well.
Rene Gabriel rates this wine 19/20 points.