vintage 2012: Bordeaux November 2012

 BORDEAUX 2012: VIGNERONS TALK OF SOFT TANNINS AND RIPE FRUIT POTENTIAL

Vignerons state that there is good potential for the vintage Bordeaux 2012,with its soft tannins and ripe fruit flavors.However a great deal of work is needed within the winery to deliver that potential.Across the left and right banks of Bordeaux,the red grapes are ready in the cellars a little earlier than expected, due to the previous heavy rains.
The vintage is 'potentially as good as back in the year 2000,which had difficult weather,but a magnificent end of season result.' Hubert De Bouard,owner of Saint Emillions Chateaux Angelus stated. 'But perhaps 2012 has just missed out on being exceptional,due to the early rainfall,but those who have monitored their vines closely should find a very good vintage by the end of it.'Jean Baptiste Bourotte,of Clos De Clocher and Chateaux Bonaigue in Pomerol,also said the year had potential; 'A long slow harvest was envisaged during the start of October,but hard work to gather the grapes into the tanks resulted in alcohol levels of up to 14%.The tannins are soft and ripe.' 'There are a lot of ripe,fruity flavours coming through.June was heavy on the rain,but we had a superbly dry August and September!' Didier Marcellis at Chateaux Serilhan in St Estephe,said he believed the vintage could be good,but may 'require care.'In Sauternes,where sunshine and high temperatures are hoped to be profitable,negotiant Bill Blatch stated; 'There are still some beautiful bunches on the vines.' Both Chateaux D'yquem and Climens ,have reported waiting for grapes to aerate after rain,and to continue the sugar fermentation process.

BORDEAUX 2012: NO PLANS FROM CRU BOURGEOIS PROPERTY

Chateaux Hourtin-Du Casse,a 25 hectare cru Bourgeois estate in St Sauveur in the northern Medoc,has announced it will not be making a 2012 wine. Owner Michael Marengo told Le Journal Du Medoc,that back in August,the decision was made due to a difficult growing season,and due to a combined attack of downy mildew and powdery mildew,in 'vast amounts rarely seen.' In June,the heavy rain destroyed the plants internal protection,allowing the mildew to take hold.'it feels like we have been working for nothing.' he added.There is a consolation however.The estate has harvested enough good quality Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for a 2012 rose,Les Roses De Marie. 'We are looking to next year,and have hired advisors to help prepare for this.' The vineyard uses only natural ingredients,and no chemicals. The Marengo family have owned Chateaux Hourtin-Du Casse since 1975.The present generation took over the business in 2000.