(BH91-94 points) A background application of toasty oak frames an airy, pure and ripe nose of beautifully well-layered dark berry fruit where additional breadth is present in the form of dried flowers, spice and earth accents. The textured, intense and muscular big-bodied flavors possess ripe tannins and plenty of dry extract, all wrapped in a balanced, lingering and energetic finish that is a bit less youthfully austere than usual.

(WA89-91 points) The 2012 Clos de Vougeot Cuvee Classique Grand Cru has a fragrant, seductive bouquet that dares suggest more complexity than the Vieilles Vignes. It is pure with lovely ripe raspberry, red plum and bergamot notes that are more expressive, at least at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied and feels silky and supple in the mouth. The red fruit are laced with white pepper and it offers a gradual crescendo toward a focused finish. Excellent. Drink 2017-2030. - Neal Martin