2012 Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux, Latricieres-Chambertin Grand Cru

The 2012 Latricières-Chambertin Grand Cru contains 60% whole clusters. It has a voluminous bouquet, quite lush and generous, although not as complex or as cerebral as the 2013. The palate is zest, almost effervescent on the entry with kirsch and orange rind infusing the red fruit and with a lovely plumpness towards the rounded finish. Very fine, though the 2013 has the edge. Tasted at the annual Arnoux-Lachaux tasting at Corney & Barrow.

(60% vendange entier): Deep, dark red. Strawberry, mocha and complex soil tones on the nose. At once sweet and peppery, in a distinctly masculine, imploded style; showing more spice than fruit today. The tannins are ripe but less elegant than those of the Echezeaux, with the peppery stem element carrying through on the slightly dry, oaky finish.