Wine Advocate – 93 Points
Another great wine in this vintage, the 2012 Malescot offers up tremendous level of black fruits, charcoal and intense, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, sensational purity, low acidity and ripe tannins. It is full-bodied, stunning, multidimensional, and a compelling example of this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2030+. Apr/2015 —Robert M. Parker Jr. | robertparker.com
James Suckling – 93 Points
Beautiful aromas and flavors of cassis, ripe black cherries and raspberries. Some earth, too. This is a full-bodied red with silky tannins and a long, fruity finish. Juicy. Inner quote mark. Feb/2015 —James Suckling | jamessuckling.com
Wine Spectator – 93 Points
This is distinctive, with a roasted alder streak running through an enticing core of crushed plum, blackberry and black currant confiture flavors. Long and velvety on the finish, with bay, tobacco and black tea accents checking in. This is suave, with fruit and terroir in spades, particularly for the vintage. Best from 2017 through 2025. 7,500 cases made. Mar/2015 —James Molesworth | winespectator.com
Description
The 2012 Château Malescot St-Exupéry from the Margaux appellation is a sublime expression of the Bordeaux region’s elegance and refinement. This Grand Cru Classé estate, with a history dating back to the 18th century, consistently produces wines of exceptional quality, and the 2012 vintage is no exception.
In the glass, this Margaux blend, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, unveils a deep ruby-red hue, offering a glimpse of the wine’s richness and complexity. The nose is a sensory delight, with aromatic layers of blackcurrant, plum, and hints of cedar, complemented by delicate floral notes and a touch of graphite.
On the palate, the 2012 Malescot St-Exupéry is a harmonious interplay of flavors. Ripe dark fruits take center stage, intertwining with nuances of blackberry, cassis, and a subtle touch of vanilla. The wine’s structure is impeccable, with refined tannins providing a velvety texture and contributing to a lingering, elegant finish.
What sets this vintage apart is its balance and aging potential. While approachable now, the 2012 Malescot St-Exupéry has the structure and complexity to evolve gracefully over the years, showcasing the hallmark characteristics of a Margaux wine.
This vintage is a testament to the meticulous winemaking at Château Malescot St-Exupéry, where tradition, terroir, and a commitment to excellence converge. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a fine meal, the 2012 Malescot St-Exupéry embodies the timeless allure of Margaux wines, inviting enthusiasts to savor a moment in Bordeaux’s winemaking history.
Château Malescot St-Exupéry, situated in the prestigious Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The estate’s name bears the imprint of two notable owners — Simon Malescot, who acquired the property in 1697, and the Count Saint-Exupéry, who was associated with the estate in the 19th century. This Grand Cru Classé is celebrated for its longstanding tradition of producing wines of exceptional quality and elegance.
The estate’s vineyards, spanning approximately 23 hectares, are predominantly planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The well-draining gravelly soils of Margaux, coupled with the region’s temperate maritime climate, provide an ideal terroir for producing wines that showcase a unique expression of the appellation.
Over the centuries, Château Malescot St-Exupéry has changed hands multiple times, each proprietor contributing to the estate’s legacy. However, it was under the ownership of the Zuger family in the late 20th century that the estate experienced significant modernization and improvements in winemaking practices.
The Zuger family’s commitment to quality was further solidified in 1955 when Château Malescot St-Exupéry was classified as a Third Growth in the official Bordeaux Wine Classification. This prestigious ranking is a testament to the estate’s consistent production of wines that stand among the finest in the Margaux appellation.
In the cellar, traditional winemaking techniques are complemented by modern innovations, ensuring a meticulous and careful approach to crafting each vintage. The vinification process pays homage to the estate’s historical roots while embracing advancements that enhance the quality and precision of the wines.
The 2012 vintage, in particular, stands as a shining example of Château Malescot St-Exupéry’s dedication to excellence. Dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine embodies the classic characteristics of Margaux, showcasing a harmonious balance between power and finesse. The aromatic complexity, velvety texture, and aging potential are hallmarks of the estate’s commitment to producing wines that capture the essence of their terroir.
Château Malescot St-Exupéry remains a respected and sought-after name in the world of Bordeaux wines. Its enduring commitment to tradition, coupled with a progressive approach to winemaking, ensures that each vintage continues to uphold the estate’s reputation for excellence. As enthusiasts uncork a bottle of Château Malescot St-Exupéry, they partake in a sip of history, savoring the timeless legacy of one of Margaux’s esteemed Grand Cru Classé properties.
