An outstanding, robust red blend from Pauillac, and one worthy of the Barons de Rothschild name…
This wine lived up to its name, Légende, offering a complex, balanced blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Merlot (30%). As one would expect from the Pauillac region in Bordeaux, dark, ripe fruit, including plums, cherries, blueberries, and blackberries emerged in both the nose and mouth. We also appreciated the leather, anise, earth, and cigar box notes, as well as the old-world style.
We enjoyed this wine during a Raclette dinner, consisting of a build-your-own combination of French and Quebec cheeses, grilled meats, grilled vegetables, and a variety of sauces. It paired very well with all of the above, showing its versatility. Our appreciation of this wine grew as it opened, offering more nuances, aromas, and flavours.
We could see this red blend pairing beautifully with other grilled meat dishes, as well as savoury spices. At $47.25 CAD, it represents good value for the money.
Rating (from 70 to 100): 91/100
Value: 3.5/5
The Bottle Details…
Name: Légende
Vintage: 2012
Producer: Domaines Lafite Barons de Rothschild
Region/Country: Pauillac, France
Grape Varietals: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Consumed: At home in late-December during the holidays
Recommended By: Picked it off the shelf at the SAQ in Montreal.
Cost: $47.25 CAD
Bottle Presentation: A clean, classic label typical of the Bordeaux region
The Tasting Details…
Appearance: Medium ruby red.
Nose: Medium-pronounced nose, with dark plums, dark cherries, leather, anise, cigar box, and a touch of herbaceous notes.
Taste: A dry, medium-to-full bodied red blend, with medium acidity and round, drying tannins. Flavours included blueberries, dark plums, dark cherries, earth, leather, slate, green herbs (savoury and thyme), ink, and charred oak.
Finish: A long finish comprised of earth, ink, and savoury herbs. Some Juniper notes emerged in our empty glasses.