Chateau Potensac - Medoc 2012

Chateau Potensac takes its name from its location, which is on the top of Potensac plateau in the northern part of the Medoc. Chateau Potensac is owned by the Delon family. Chateau Potensac has been in the hands of the Delon family for several generations. The grandfather of Jean Hubert Delon obtained the estate through marriage when he married into the Liquard family. From that time on, Chateau Potensac has been passed down from father to son.

The vines are on average close to 50 years of age. However, they have old vines, some of which are more than 80 years of age. The vineyard is located on two slopes that reach up to 35 meters at their peak elevation. Picking takes place using both manual and machine harvesting.

With dark color, the wine opens with herbs, cedar wood, wild strawberry and pepper. Full bodied, dense, tannic and strict, this powerful wine is packed with kirsch, cassis and acidity. It is going to need time to come together.

The 2012 Potensac surpassed my expectations from barrel, because as I stated back then, it has developed more flesh to counterbalance those prenatal hard tannins. It has an attractive if unspectacular raspberry, strawberry and tobacco-scented bouquet, quite closed at first, opaque, but opening with several minutes in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple ripe blackberry fruit laced with tobacco and sea salt. I appreciate the finish here. There is satisfying substance, a gentle grip and a classic pencil lead, almost Pauillac-like finish. Enjoy this upstanding Médoc from Jean-Hubert Delon over the next 10-12 years. Tasted January 2016. 90 points, Neal Martin, Wine Advocate.

A silky and refined Potensac and very well done for the vintage. Medium body, fine tannins and crisp acidity. Lots of citrus and raspberry character. Drink or hold. 89 points, James Suckling.

48% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc