Chateau Sociando-Mallet 1996

Deep glowing ruby with a tight rim, this bottle is elegantly dark-fruited with sophistication. The profile is towards the terroir-based—a near 5th Growth quality with traditional, St Estephe structure, firm backbone, earthy, mineral, barnyard with tamed, still dusty tannins. The palate is gripping with texture leading to a dry, medium finish. Relatively fresh and clean.

Some customers and critics(including JS) would want more fruit. Unfortunately, most Medocs do not have round, ripe fruit. However, the team thinks this wish is stylish and unique. Appropriate food and fresh blueberry will add much to its appreciation.

Consistent scores.

Many tasters like the wine, including RP, who is 2012 for once accorded it 93 Points. The latest score is from Decanter. Awarding it 93 points, Decanter wrote, " Medium-bodied 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc blend from Bordeaux, France. 13.0% ABV. This is one of the most must-try wines in this lineup because it stands next to these Pauillac classified properties and delivers so much enjoyment about the 1996 vintage. Crème de cassis, chocolate and rich black fruits with finely-bonded open tannins. At its plateau, with tertiary notes of undergrowth and tobacco leaf, this easily has another decade ahead of it and is a signature Médoc Cabernet." 93/100 points from Jane Anson at Decanter Magazine. Decanter continued, "Jean Gautreau purchased the estate in 1969, and it outperformed most Cru Bourgeois. Château Sociando Mallet has expanded to a 57-ha estate from its 7ha under the 30 years ownership of Gautreau, who is aware of his superb terroir and trying to make exceptional Clarets for long keeping; and succeeded!" Edited.