Quintus 2012

Composed of 89% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Franc, the 2012 Quintus is very promising. Its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by notes of cranberries, mulberries, black cherries, spring flowers and a chalky component. Lush, medium-bodied and accessible, this well-made St.-Emilion is certainly better than what was achieved by the old ownership. It should drink well for 10-12 years.

Formerly known as Tertre Daugay, this 37-acre estate was purchased by the owners of Haut-Brion and La Mission-Haut-Brion, the Dillon family

The Quintus is a blend of 89% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Franc, picked between 1st and 17th October, and it is being raised in 51% new oak. There are touches of incense on the nose that offers light dark berry and espresso-tinged scents. The palate has a pleasing succulent on the entry with plenty of lifted red berry. There is good backbone to this Quintus with a conservative finish that demonstrated deftly integrated oak and good persistency in the mouth. Tasted April 2013.

Medium to deep garnet in color, the 2012 Quintus wafts out with evocative scents of boysenberry preserves, dried cherries, and tobacco leaf, plus suggestions of iron ore, potpourri, and dried Provence herbs. Medium-bodied, the palate has a great core of mature black and red fruit with plenty of savory accents and a chewy texture, finishing with a peppery kick.

Mouthwatering, juicy, raspberry fruits, plenty of salinity and rosemary, sage herbs. This is enjoyable, with grip and power and balance at 10 years old, and depth through the mid palate. Second vintage of this new wine, created by the Haut-Brion family in 2011 from the purchase of Château Tertre Daugay - and at this point it was entirely made from this formerly classified property (beginning its expansion with the addition of Château L'Arrosée in 2013). 51% new oak, 42hl/h yield.

89% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc. Own broad-shoulder bottle shape and heavy glass. Boo! Intense crimson; much deeper than the Dragon de Quintus. Really rather refined and sophisticated on the nose. Very youthful with the oak and fruit far from married but vigorous and gutsy - with this smooth overlay of a connection with a first growth. Finishes a little dry but lots of punch.

Is the increase in price since Quintus changed its name (from Tertre-Daugay) and ownership
justified? The Haut-Brion team has certainly given it an extra dimension, producing a wine
that is fine, floral and subtle with flavours of plum, red cherry and smoky oak, but there is
better value elsewhere.
Drink: 2020-28