2012 Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Joie du Vin Block B5B
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Tasting notes
Clos du Val's flagship 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Joie du Vin emerges from a single block on the property. A compelling array of blue and black fruits, smoke, tobacco, licorice and violets graces the palate in a beautiful, vivid wine endowed with real class. Savory herbs, lavender and a hint of new leather add complexity as the wine shows off its considerable pedigree. Although quite deep and pliant, the Joie du Vin retains the trademark medium-bodied Clos du Val style. This is one of the finest wines I can remember tasting from Clos du Val.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Joie du Vin reveals measured, restrained cassis fruit, medium body, an elegant style that pays homage to Bordeaux, attractive purity, and a nicely balanced, pretty style. Readers looking for more texture, bombastic fruit, vigor and a more dramatic personality will find this underwhelming, but I enjoyed it. Drink it over the next decade or more.