2012 d'Issan, Margaux

Critics have consistently recognized the dimensions of d'Issan 2012 for its exceptional characteristics that have remained stable and balanced throughout the ageing process. Parker has highly acclaimed its concentration, while Neal Martin has praised its distinct Margaux aroma and taste. Decanter has emphasized its complexity and structure, and Wine Enthusiast unequivocally states its fruity flavour.

So, d'Issan 2012's being awarded 95RP indicates that it is an outstanding wine: this 2012 Château d'Issan stands out in the vintage, one of the superstars. It boasts an inky purple colour and a stunning nose of spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry fruit, with hints of incense and graphite. The medium to full-bodied and stunningly concentrated wine offers a unique tasting experience. It has some potential, like 5 to 10 years. 

Drumming on the Margaux classicism, a term used to describe the wine's adherence to the traditional style of the Margaux region, Neal Martin at Vinous says 2012 d'Issan has an aromatic and expressive bouquet with cheerful blackberry, iodine and cedar scents. It is very focused and classy, with seamlessly integrated new oak. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin and perfect acidity. It is compact at the moment but brimming over with mineralité and tension. 

Decanter awarded it 94 points for its impressive complexity. It has high acidity, a characteristic well-balanced with cassis and bilberry fruits, slate, cigar, and pencil lead. The tannins are still firm but were successful in 2011 and 2012, which we tasted recently, proving Issan's consistency. It has been aged in 50% new oak.

Wine Enthusiast emphasized its fruit quality and awarded it 93. it opined that this is a ripe, fruity wine with some chocolate extract and black-currant fruitiness. It is a soft wine with attractive final acidity. The note is old, though.