2012 Ghislaine Barthod, Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, Les Veroilles

Dark plums, black cherries, menthol, cloves and smoke come alive in the 2012 Chambolle-Musigny Les Veroilles. Clean, bracing minerality gives the 2012 much of its pure structure and body. The flavors are wonderfully intense and layered to the core. The Veroilles finishes with substantial tannic grip, so readers are best off letting it sit in the cellar for at least a few years. There is an element of darkness and mystery here that is totally alluring.

Good deep red. Penetrating, Bonnes-Mares-like aromas of blood orange, epices fines, pepper and rust show convey soil character and a medicinal reserve. Equally piercing on the palate, showing a light touch and outstanding inner-mouth tension to the flavors of crushed, slightly tart red berries. Rich in extract and very long on the echoing, dry, firmly tannic finish, which displays chewy minerality. Not an easy wine but offers exciting potential.