2012 Chateau Palmer, Alter Ego de Palmer

ABOUT THE WINE
Alter Ego de Palmer is the second wine of the prestigious Château Palmer, located in the highly regarded Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. The 2012 vintage reflects the unique terroir of this historic estate while offering a more approachable and fruit-forward expression compared to its first wine. Created from a blend of 46% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 8% Petit Verdot, Alter Ego de Palmer showcases the elegance and balance typical of Margaux wines, while offering early drinking potential. The 2012 vintage enjoyed moderate weather, producing a wine that combines ripe fruit with freshness and fine tannins, making it an accessible yet complex Bordeaux.

TASTING NOTES
The 2012 Alter Ego de Palmer displays an aromatic nose of blackcurrants, plums, and dark cherries, intertwined with subtle floral notes of violet and delicate hints of spice and cedar. On the palate, this Margaux wine is medium to full-bodied, with a soft, rounded texture and well-integrated tannins. The ripe fruit flavours are complemented by a touch of liquorice and a pleasant earthiness. The finish is long and smooth, with a lingering freshness and balanced acidity, showcasing the harmony between fruit and structure that is characteristic of the Margaux terroir.

FOOD PAIRING
This Bordeaux red wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including roasted lamb, duck breast, and beef fillet. It also complements earthy dishes like mushroom risotto, as well as hard cheeses such as Comté or Manchego. Best served at 16-18°C, and it is recommended to decant the wine for at least 30 minutes to fully open up its aromatic complexity.

FRIARWOOD SAYS
The 2012 Alter Ego de Palmer is an excellent representation of Margaux’s refined and elegant style, offering a more approachable and fruit-driven profile than Château Palmer’s first wine. With its blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, this wine combines ripe fruit, freshness, and soft tannins, making it a great choice for both early drinking and short- to medium-term cellaring. Ideal for those who appreciate classic Bordeaux wines with a modern, approachable twist.