Chateau Prieure-Lichine Margaux 2012

This is deep, rich and pretty full-on for the vintage. I can see the ambition here, although it's a little austere right now and still needs time. Cassis and bilberry fruits are tightly buttoned down, but there is excellent potential.

This was the year when they bought the 8ha Château Pontet Chappaz, providing additional Cabernet Sauvignon from excellent gravelly terroir for the grand vin, and the impact is clear. Last time I tasted these two vintages side by side, I gave them both 91, but the 2012 is really starting to blossom. 50% new oak.