2012 Thibault Liger-Belair, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru

The 2012 Clos-Vougeot impresses for its perfumed aromatics, silky fruit and chalky tannins, all of which are impeccably balanced throughout. Sweet red berries, rose petals, chalk and bright saline notes abound. There is so much to look forward to here. The 2012 was vinified with fully destemmed fruit and aged in 40% new oak. This is a great Clos Vougeot in the making.

Bright, full red. Reticent but pure aromas of black cherry, licorice, menthol and wild herbs display some liqueur-like high tones. Then as primary as a barrel sample on the palate, offering excellent density but limited early personality. The brooding black cherry and menthol flavors show little easy sweetness today. This youthfully monolithic, rather muscular Clos Vougeot finishes with serious, building tannins that will require extended cellaring.