(BH92-95 points) Bouchard often does quite well with this appellation and so it is again in 2012 as there is fine complexity to the brooding nose that is less spicy than the Ech but earthier with game and underbrush nuances to the dark berry fruit aromas. There is excellent volume and focused power to the broad-shouldered, intense and concentrated flavors that possess an abundance of palate coating dry extract, all wrapped in a firm, serious, persistent and moderately austere finale. This will not be a good candidate for early consumption, indeed it will require plenty of cellar time.

Tasted blind at the annual "Burgfest" tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru from Bouchard Père & Fils was one of the few that surpassed my expectations out of barrel. It has abundant red berry fruit on the nose - wild strawberry and blackcurrant, a touch of fennel coming through with aeration. There is oak here, but it is nicely enmeshed. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins. There is plenty of sweetness here, candied orange peel infusing the bright, tart cherry fruit, but maintaining fine precision on the finish. - Neal Martin