(91-93) Very generous wood and menthol influence fights with the otherwise elegant aromas of red and dark cherry where additional breadth is present in the form of spice and earth. The dense yet attractively refined flavors possess a lovely, even caressing mouth feel before offering outstanding depth and length. Note that my predicted range assumes that the wood treatment will eventually be integrated as it is borderline heavy-handed today.

(JS 92-93 points) Very attractive, brambly, spicy dark cherries and plums, delivering a mouthwatering appeal. The palate has a very dense core of dark cherries and plums, as well as deep-set tannins. Smooth and powerful. This is in great form in 2016. Try from 2022. - Nick Stock

A monopole of Bouchard, the earliest trace of Clos de la Mousse dates back to 1220. Bouchard now own 3.36ha of this very well-exposed site on deep limestone/clay soil. This retains moisture with Clos de la Mousse being a late-ripening Premier Cru. Richer, deeper, darker hue of black fruit in the glass. More conserve than fresh fruit in character. In 2016 80% of the crop was lost to frost. Vibrant and sappy on the palate with firm tannins. 10% whole bunch used to emphasise freshness.