(BH92-94 points) This is more expressive than it usually is at this point in its development with a broad-ranging nose of red currant, pungent earth, soft wood spice and hints of underbrush. There is a lovely vibrancy to the rich, caressing and restrained large-scaled flavors that possess excellent mid-palate concentration and strikingly good persistence on the youthfully austere finish. Good stuff in 2012 but even more structured than usual so patience will be required.

Tasted blind at the annual "Burgfest" tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru from Domaine Drouhin-Laroze has a composed bouquet of blackcurrant and raspberry fruit, a touch of cigar ash and woodland aromas developing close behind. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannin, low acidity, rather extracted and perhaps, just a little monotone on the finish. Maybe it will develop more personality in bottle...it should do. - Neal Martin