Chateau Saint Pierre   Saint Pierre

2012 Saint-Pierre

By Chateau Saint-Pierre

2012 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre, St-Julien, Bordeaux

In the spectrum of Bordeaux's vintages, those with immediate charm and elegance are often overshadowed by their more robust and ostentatious brethren. Yet, in the case of the 2012 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre, we find a year that flirts with finesse rather than flamboyance—a vintage which, in my view, deserves equal attention from connoisseurs and investors alike.

 

The Poise of 2012: Distinguishing Merits

With the curtains drawn on another harvest, 2012 presented Bordeaux with challenges aplenty. However, for estates like Chateau Saint-Pierre, these hurdles were deftly transformed into a pursuit of balance. Though it may not court the bombast of the acclaimed “great” years, the 2012 showcases a deft touch; ripe fruits are presented with an exceptional poise that captivates those seeking subtler sophistication.

 

Investment Perspective: Steady Elegance

Bearing witness to Saint-Pierre’s signature blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2012 speaks to the investor’s sensibility akin to a safe haven. It’s a testament to the enduring truth that not all investments must be boisterous to be brilliant. The wine streams forth flavours with precision—cassis mingled with traces of tobacco and a sliver of graphite—and as it ebbs away, it leaves an indelible mineral streak as poised testimony to its intrinsic worth.

Harmonious and steadfastly structured, the 2012 is unfolding impeccably over time. Its ageing trajectory remains promising and its current complexity signals a vintage that will continue to satisfy both palate and portfolio for years to come. In the realm of fine wine investment where the value often lies hidden amidst quieter vintages, here is a prime example of judicious selection bearing fruit.

In summary, this well-appointed wine ranks as a distinguished exemplar amidst its peers—an embodiment of restraint in an era that often prizes power above all else. A befitting collectible for any serious investor's cellar, the 2012 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre entices with both its current grace and its latent potential. Indeed, an astute acquisition that resonates with an understanding that true refinement whispers rather than shouts.

Current market price

$910.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

45

Scores and tasting notes

91-93

A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Merlot cropped at 38hl/ha the Saint Pierre 2012 has a nicely defined, conservative bouquet of blackberry, graphite and cold stone. The Cabernet feels ripe and like many wines, it is direct, no-frills bouquet. The palate is medium-bodied with a crisp, chalky texture entry. There is a pleasant brightness to this Saint Pierre with an edgy, graphite tinged finish. Very fine. Tasted April 2013.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013

91-93

A blockbuster effort for the vintage, the 2012 Saint-Pierre exhibits a dense purple color along with a big, sweet nose of blackberries, coffee, forest floor and camphor. This is a seriously endowed, surprisingly full-bodied effort that is atypically rich and textured for the vintage. Kudos to Saint-Pierre, one of the smallest but finest and most consistent of the St.-Julien chateaux. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 15+ years.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #206

Vintage performance