2012 Simard
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Tasting notes
The 2012 Simard has quite a ferrous nose, with an equal mixture of red and black fruit. This is clearly fully mature. The palate is rather rustic with peppery red fruit. It is a rugged Saint-Émilion that just has a mote of dryness toward the finish. Drink it soon. Tasted at Jeroboam's Bordeaux tasting in London.
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2012 Simard offers good complexity to match its pleasant, mid-weight personality. Sweet red stone fruits, tobacco and flowers are all nicely lifted throughout. The 35% Cabernet Franc, which is high for this wine, is felt in the slightly vegetal notes that lurk beneath. Drink this tasty Saint-Emilion over the next handful of years. It will be interesting to see what Alain and Pauline Vauthier do here now that they are fully in charge.
65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc. Fermented and aged in concrete vats. Deep crimson with purple rim. Minty, cedary dark fruit. Firm and chewy but lovely and fresh on the finish. Fine fruit, not as rustic as it used to be – better sorting, says Pauline Vauthier. (JH)
About the producer
Owned by the Vauthier family, who also own Ch. Ausone, this large Saint-Emilion estate is the entry-point to the Vauthier range. It is an excellent introduction to the family’s wines and great value, offering an earlier-drinking style.