Chateau Rouget 2012, Pomerol
Glossy deep ruby coloured — medium rim. Ripe and expansive nose of big blueberry and plum fruit. Also tones of caramel, truffles, chocolates, white pepper.Complexity comes from tones of incense and licorice. Reflecting most characteristics of the nsoe, the riped-cored palate is rich, round, and smooth with highly refined but plentiful tannins providing the framework. Very balanced. Lots of spice and smoke with a long, plump finish. Starts driniking very well now.
The value if this Chateau is not only on the delicate palate and nose. Château Rouget is next to Petit Village, Le Pin and Trotanoy, yet it is fetching a fraction of the prices of wines from these vineyards. Vineyards planted with 85% Merlot represents the rest Cabernet Franc are around 40 years old. Old vats replaced truncated oak vats of 50 and 60 hl , hence very unique wood tones and round palate.
Very nice comments included RP93 and AG92.
This property has been on the qualitative high road for some years, and 2012 continues that path. Deep ruby/purple, with wonderfully sweet, earthy, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit jumping from the glass, it is broad, opulent, beautifully textured and juicy. This is a sexy, lush, heady Pomerol to drink now and over the next 15 or more years. Full, long and impressive, there is no reason to defer your gratification with this beauty.
Score: 93 Robert Parker, Wine Advocate (218), April 2015
The 2012 Rouget shows the more virile, imposing side of Pomerol in its dark flavors and powerful feel. Hints of smoke, tar, game, licorice and tobacco add gravitas on the finish. Give this masculine wine a few years in bottle and drink it to age 15-20. Once the tannins soften a bit, the 2012 should be a real gem. Drink 2022-2042.
Score: 92 Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, January 2016
