Chateau Barde-Haut 2012 Imperial in Holzkiste

Parker: The Barde Haut, 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the latter fermented in 500-litre Sylvain barrels and then transferred back into 500-litre barrels, has a lifted, rounded, quite sensual bouquet with a lot of fleshy, expressive Merlot fruit. It is modern in style, very pure and generous. The palate is nicely poised with sumptuous red berries, kirsch, a touch of white pepper and a nice grip on the finish that refrains from becoming over-powering. Excellent. 91-93/100

Suckling: A dense and polished red for the vintage with dried strawberry, raspberry and chocolate character. Full body, firm tannins and a pretty finish. Needs two or three years to soften slightly but already impressive. 92/100

Galloni: The 2012 Barde-Haut is dark, fleshy and voluptuous, with notable depth and resonance from the Merlot. Mocha, bittersweet chocolate, plums and spices all add nuance, but above all else, the 2012 is a wine of spherical texture and intensity. Give it a few years to fully unwind. 92+/100

Falstaff: Dunkles Rubingranat. In der Nase sehr verhaltene rote Beerenfrucht. Etwas erdige Nuancen. Am Gaumen süß, schokoladig, mittlere Statur, guter Abgang.