Domaine Taupenot-Merme’s parcel in Charmes-Chambertin lies right up at the top of the slope, just across the chemin from Clos de Bèze. The wine is going to be outstanding in 2012, as is wafts from the glass in a complex and classy mix of cherries, strawberries, grilled meat, a fine base of black minerality, fresh herb tones and cedar. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, complex and vibrant, with a rock solid core of fruit, outstanding transparency, fine-grained tannins, bright acids and outstanding length and grip on the nascently complex and refined finish. Great juice in the making. (Drink between 2025-2075)

(WA91-93 points) The 2012 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru has a fresh minty bouquet that is well-defined and vigorous, offering dried rose petals and spice as it unfurls. The palate is crisp on the entry with crisp tannins that underpin what is a linear Charmes-Chambertin that may have closed up a little since November. However there is plenty of matiere on the finish. - Neal Martin

Pretty cherry, raspberry and spice flavors are singed with tobacco and tar notes. The youthful exuberance should settle down as this finds equilibrium with time. The fine, lingering finish echoes fruit and spice details. Best from 2018 through 2030. 253 cases made. –BS