(BH93-96 points) A trace of reduction detracts only marginally from the appeal of the otherwise pretty and mildly exotic aromas of acacia blossom, pear, mandarin orange and wet stone aromas. The delicious, gorgeously elegant and pure imposingly-scaled flavors possess a silky palate impression on the concentrated, explosive and stunningly long finish that seems to be composed of liquid rock and a very firm spine of citrus-inflected acidity. This is a very big, indeed even huge Chevalier that is overtly powerful and one that should age effortlessly for decades. In sum this is an old school vintage for the Leflaive Chevalier so I would suggest buying it only with the clear intention of cellaring it for the long-term.

Extraordinary charm on the nose! Already! Sprightly and lively with lots of lift and fruit. Very much less dense than the Bâtard but with real class. Underneath there is weight but on top it is all come-hither appeal. Crackling finish. 18.5/20

95+ Dense and reserved, Leflaive's 2012 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru unwinds in the glass with aromas of pear, toasted bread, citrus zest, mandarin and crisp peach, framed by a touch of light reduction and new oak. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, deep and powerful, with tangy acids, prodigious concentration and a penetrating, mouthwatering finish. This is a muscular, tight-knit Chevalier that will need time. The product of a humid spring and yields reduced by mildew and hail, by the numbers the 2012 possesses only 13.05% alcohol with a low pH of 3.0. - William Kelley