2012 Valandraud, St-Emilion While the sweetness of the

While the sweetness of the fruit makes it easy to drink now

this one might benefit from short-term cellaring

Best since 1989

The blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2013 Month̩lie les Duresses has a light but pure raspberry leaf and strawberry-scented bouquet that wafts gently from the glass

2012 Valandraud, St-Emilion While the sweetness of theThis is well endowed, with thick, velvety layers of crushed fig, boysenberry and blackberry fruit that meld with racy graphite notes. Lots of licorice root and alder accents line the finish, giving the fruit a textural contrast. The length lets everything sail on. A beauty. Best from 2017 through 2030. (JM)