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

Another gorgeous wine, the 2012 Chambolle-Musigny Aux Combottes impresses for its round, sensual personality. Dark raspberries, blueberries, flowers, mint and licorice all flesh out gracefully. The firm tannins are going to require a few years to settle down, but this is a striking wine in the making. In 2012, there are only two barrels of the Combottes. Because of that, new oak is a bit higher than normal.

Moderately saturated medium red. Aromas of black fruits, violet, licorice, wild herbs and menthol. In a rather gentle style, showing a suave texture to the dark berry and herb flavors. Fine-grained wine with good energy and grip. Silkier than the village wine but the firmly tannic, slightly chocolatey finish shows a faint dryness. Barthod harvested in 2012 with potential alcohol levels in the 12% to 12.5% range and generally chaptalized a half degree.