CRITIC REVIEWS
Richard Hemming MW
Showing lovely development, and adhering to the ten-year rule with its vegetal and earthy character just starting to show. More chewiness than the 2015, even, but in a very drinkable way. (RH)
Jane Anson
2012 was a relatively cool vintage but this remains lovely and open on the nose. Theres a good density to the black fruit, mixed through with charcoal and cedar notes. Still tight on the finish but a good quality wine, with appealingly supple tannins through the mid-palate and it should be ready to drink before both the 2011 and the 2010 vintages. The gravel soils of Château Beychevelle, alongside the thermal effect of the river, often give it one week difference of ripening compared to neighbouring estates further to the west of the appellation, and this really helped in 2012. This was the first year with technical director Romain Ducolomb, who came from Château Clinet, although he is originally from Burgundy and has worked both in Burgundy and Napa along the way. 4% Cabernet Franc makes up the blend.